Champion junior boxer proves wrong target in attack

Category: Kidnapping

Friday, June 11, 2010
IT seemed innocent enough - three people in a mini-van asking for directions at a well-lit intersection at 8pm on Wednesday in the quiet rural community of Yungaburra.

Their sinister intentions quickly became apparent but the quick reflexes of a talented young boxer and a powerful right hook foiled an abduction attempt.

"It seems so innocent," 15-year-old Jackson said yesterday.

"They stopped and asked for directions and I walked up to the campervan to help. The sliding door opened fast and I spun around to see what was happening.

"Then this bloke grabbed me by the collar and tried to drag me into the van. He was really trying to drag me in but I pulled back with all my weight and then I hit him in the left ear."

A shaken but relieved 186cm and 78kg Jackson yesterday told The Cairns Post he was convinced his boxing skills saved him while he made the 600m journey from boxing training to his home.

It only took one punch from the two-time Australian junior champion and two-time Queensland champion to send the alleged abductors fleeing up Maple St from the scene.

"I was more surprised than scared," he said.