NEWQUAY boxer Brad Pauls received a hero’s welcome on home soil leading out Newquay AFC with his newly won title belt held high on Easter Monday.

The ‘Newquay Bomb’ was centre stage ahead of the match, inspiring players and fans alike as Newquay AFC went on to secure an impressive 3–1 victory against Oldland Abbotonians.

Fans young and old queued to get their photograph with the boxer.

Brad said: “I really appreciate all the local support. It really gives me extra motivation. I love representing Newquay and supporting its local great football team. It was a massive honour to lead the teams out and see them get the win.”

The homecoming comes just days after Pauls stopped previously unbeaten Shakiel Thompson in the ninth round to claim the IBF International middleweight title at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester in front of a packed crowd on Saturday, March 28.

The win puts him in contention with a world title shot and adds to the British title he captured in 2024 and marks a major milestone in his journey from Cornwall to the global boxing stage.

Pauls, who was born and raised in Newquay, began his training locally before travelling the world to pursue his dream of becoming a champion.

Now 33, he has firmly re-established himself among the top contenders in his division.

The stoppage victory, delivered on a major televised card in Manchester, showcased Pauls’ resilience, coming from behind on the scorecards before producing a decisive knockout.

His return to Newquay, belt in hand, was met with a proud reception, symbolising not just personal success, but a moment of inspiration for the local community and aspiring athletes across Cornwall.

A spokesperson for Newquay AFC said: “Brad Pauls came home to Mount Wise today with the IBF International middleweight belt, and 667 people came through the gates to see it, the highest attendance of our season.

“He is one of ours, he came back to share it, and he showed every young person in this town that it can be done from here.”