MICHAEL FAFERA has made the perfect start to life as a professional boxer.

York's newest pro pugilist, light heavyweight prospect Fafera won his debut bout on Friday night against Zac Thompson at the Elland Road banqueting suite in Leeds.

Thompson, from Newark, was forced to retire in his corner at the end of round one of the Mark Bateson promotion, which Fafera controlled from start to finish.

The 23-year-old Fafera, who is based in Huntington, had an impressive record on the amateur circuit, winning 15 of 16 contests in the three years he has been fighting.

In March of this year, he took the top prize of £10,000 at the Cashfighter competition in Leicester after winning three fights in a row, including one against the experienced professional Martin Concepcion.

He signed his professional contract during the summer with manager Glenn Banks.

Of Fafera's dominant debut victory, Banks said: "He found his range, distance and timing quickly and put his shots together well.

"His opponent Thompson was completely outgunned and towards the end of the first round had nose and eye damage.

"Michael would like to thank the 100-plus large and vocal York support, which is always appreciated."