A gold Youth Olympic medal is coming home to Stockport.

Brinnington boxing prodigy Michael Maughan was crowned champion at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.

It comes after 16-year-old Maughan defeated Kazakhstan's Bibarys Ashirbay in the men's under-70kg final, following a split decision victory (two out of three judges declared in Maughan's favour).

England Boxing, the nation's governing body for the sport, said simply: "Michael Maughan has done it!

"What a moment, what an achievement."

Maughan had expressed his intention to become Youth Olympic Champion long before he set foot on the plane.

"My goals for the competition is of course like any other and that is to come back with a gold medal for Britain and show the world who I am and to become Youth Olympic Champion", he said shortly after his selection.

He also said at the time that he felt "very honoured and proud" to represent the country and Stockport.

"I'm very grateful to be given the opportunity to box on the world's best stage", he said.

"Preparing to represent Team GB is a proud and exciting opportunity it means giving my best every day in training, staying disciplined and representing my country with professionalism, respect and pride both in and out of the ring."

The hard work has clearly paid off, and Michael clearly took his actions as seriously as his words when it came to fulfilling his ambition.

Maughan also credited his gym, Stockport & Brinnington ABC, as being instrumental in helping him develop as an athlete.

He trains there six days each week, and emphasises the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people, and staying dedicated.

He trains with coach Eric Drayson, who said: "What Michael has achieved is just incredible. It shows what young people can achieve through hard work and dedication."