STANLEE Wilson has opened his heart on the opportunity to help Mitch Austin raise funds for a children’s hospital in Kettering.

Wilson, 32, fought Austin in a exhibition boxing match in Perdiswell, Worcester on Saturday and lost on points, but the contest raised around £1,600.

The Slough star used the event as a part of his preparations for the K1 heavyweight title contest against Tadas Digrys in Maidenhead on Saturday, March 3.

Wilson told the Observer: “I lost on points but it was always going to be like that. I just helped put on a show and give Mitch a runaround.

“Mitch actually got a little teary-eyed at the end. He had never boxed in his life before. I’m well-trained in several combat sports but Mitch held is own and done really well.

“I am proud of what Mitch has done and achieved, and I’m honoured to be a part of his story. That’s a genuine feeling I have. Mitch got a lot out of it and I’m happy for him.

“It was good to be a part of Mitch’s story. It was nice to give something back a little and help Mitch get his own time in the sunshine.

“I got three rounds in and that will help set me up for my tittle fight a week on Saturday. I enjoyed it and took the chance to work on my defence a little”

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