York's Will Harrison in stunning second draw against Joe Garside

Followers of Northern professional boxing were as stunned as the boxers themselves when the highly-anticipated title belt rematch between York’s Will Harrison and Joe Garside from Halifax ended in yet another 95 points each draw on referee Michael Alexander’s scorecard.

A result identical to that of their first bout overseen back in April by Darren Sarginson.

Harrison reacted: “I hope everyone agrees with my manager Glenn Banks who said that I put on a boxing masterclass of skill and technique over the ten rounds.

“I was courageous too really going for it.

“I appreciate everyone travelling to Rotherham in support and especially thanks to my sponsors.

“Joe Garside is one tough opponent. We both love being in these important fights and I’m up for a further rematch.

“I know what level I’ve reached. Let’s make it a Yorkshire trilogy.

“I will be ready. Unless a bigger, better opportunity comes along.

“I’ll be ready for that too.”

Harrison joined the professional ranks in 2021 following an amateur career which saw him become the Yorkshire champion at 63kg.

Will Harrison stands firm in his corner after his rematch with Joe Garside ended in another draw. (Image: Chris Kendall Photography) He then won five paid bouts before boxing Garside last April.

Saturday’s ten-round bout between Harrison and Garside took place at the Magna Centre Rotherham on a show promoted by Steffy Bull and Ryan Rhodes with the belt in contention being for the British Boxing Board of Control’s Central Area Welterweight (66kg) title.

“Will worked harder than anyone can imagine preparing for this rematch leaving no stone unturned,” stated manager Banks.

“We’re gutted by the decision because we were certain Will had done enough given how precisely he selected his shots and how few of the opponent’s shots got Will in either body or head.

“Nevertheless, our team wants to commend Joe Garside who’s a quality opponent.

“We’re enormously proud of Will and everyone in York should be too.”

26-year-old Harrison trains under champion boxer Josh Warrington’s father Sean O’Hagan at Warrington’s Garforth gym.

He has his own plumbing business and is currently sponsored by Eco-Heat-York, York Digital Image, Hands that Heal Physiotherapy and Dobson’s Joiners.

Any individuals or local companies interested in supporting Whacker Harrison can best contact him on Instagram at willie_harrison_ or e-mail at will.willharrison @gmail.com .