IT was a busy weekend for Mocka’s Boxing Club with three of the club’s big names in the ring.

Donald ‘Duck’ Jones was chasing a spot on Australia’s Commonwealth Games team, while Jayden Riddle continued his pro career and Katie Riddle returned to the ring after three years.

Coach, Ray ‘Mocka’ McIntosh said it was a tough day with the trio losing, but there were still plenty of positives to take out of the weekend.

“It is a boot in the guts, but he (Jones) still wants to wear the green and gold,” he said.

“He won the first session and it went to a split decision in the second and it didn’t go our way against Queensland, which put us out of contention.

“I think the first round we lost and the second and third I thought we did enough, but we lost.

“He was ready to go, we’d done a lot of work and we were confident.

“There are a couple of goals we are aiming for later in the year.”

Jayden’s pro career continued with a bout against Jason Mallia, but the local was unable to get the victory, losing on decision.

McIntosh said Riddle was well preprepared and the longer bouts seemed to suit him better.

“Jayden was exceptional, he is improving with every bout and the six rounds suit him,” he said.

“His other bouts have been four and his momentum picks up in the six-round bouts.

“He is just settling into the pro style

“Victoria is the only state which hasn’t rolled with momentum (due to lockdowns), but there are probably only a couple of things I have to work on, the rest of the package is coming together well.”

Jayden’s wife, Katie, also had her first bout after having two kids and was unable to get the win, but will be better for the bout.

“She gave her best, and she is still keen to push forward,” McIntosh said.

“She faced a girl from the ACT and was stopped after the second round.

“There were nerves naturally and she will bounce back, I am sure of that.”

While it was a tough weekend for the club, McIntosh is remaining positive and has clear goals and things the club is working towards.

“Duck is the current Victorian light heavyweight champion and he has held that for four years now and we are still aiming to be the Australian champion,” he said.

“He is still looking for the green and gold and now with the nationals later in the year, he will get automatic selection into that.

“The club is certainly moving forward, there were a few little setbacks but we will keep the momentum rolling.”

The club has two more in action next month, with Will Robinson and Imogene McDonald taking to the ring.