He might only be 12 years old and weighing 27kg, but Beaudesert boxer Kane Russell packs an almighty punch.
Those punches led to a championship belt on March 28, when he won the 28kg Queensland state title on the Sunshine Coast.
The young fighter, who has been boxing for four years, said the victory was a rewarding moment after consistent training and dedication.
“It feels good,” Kane said.
“I like the techniques and getting to come and put it into work.”
The Queensland title adds to an already impressive resume for the 12-year-old, who has also claimed an Australian title and a Logan Series belt earlier in his career.
Training two to three times a week, Kane balances sparring, bag work and cardio while continuing to develop his skills in the ring.
Kane’s father, John, said boxing had become a shared journey for the pair, allowing them to train and grow together.
“It’s one of the sports you can actually be really involved with,” John said.
“We’re able to train together, run in the morning together.
“With him it’s more like a team thing.”
John said the focus had always been on development rather than rushing results, with careful planning around fights and training loads.
“Kids this age are prone to burn out too,” he said.
“We’re trying to keep it nearly like a second-tier sport… you nearly always need something else.”
That approach has seen Kane continue to enjoy his boxing while also playing rugby league for the Kingfishers, helping maintain balance and avoid fatigue.
John said finding suitable opponents remained one of the biggest challenges, with Kane often giving away weight in bouts.
“We’re always giving away weight… sometimes three to five kilos,” he said.
“But you don’t want to just throw him in there against anyone, you need the right opponent.”
Despite the challenges, John said he was proud of his son’s achievements and growth in the sport.
“I’m very proud of him,” he said.
“He’s got quite a packed routine at the moment with footy two nights a week, boxing three or four times, so it’s great to see him taking all that in his stride.”
With his latest state title secured, Kane said he was keen to continue improving and stepping back into the ring as opportunities arise.
