Beyond The Ropes: Elisha & Mackensie Walton

Beyond The Ropes: Elisha & Mackensie Walton

One family. Two fighters. This is the story of the fighting twins.

The 14-year-old twin sisters have got thirty-one fights between them. Elisha, with sixteen fights. Mackensie has had one fight less.

Where were you born?

We were born in Middlesbrough at the James Cook Hospital. We were premature twins, born two months early.

What type of upbringing did you have?

We’ve had a strict upbringing. Our mam and dad are very protective. Our earliest memories are going on holidays as a family travelling to different countries. We all grew up together and were close as a family.

How did you start in boxing?

We have always been sports-minded. We went to the boxing gym early with my dad when we were about 6 years old. We did pads and drills with my dad, and ever since then, we have had our minds focused on boxing.

We had a lot of fun at the gym at boxing when we were younger with my dad. We got used to the environment. And then when we were 12 years old we decided we wanted to box competitively. We joined a gym, the Middlesbrough ABC and the journey began 

Can you remember your first fight and how you felt?

Our first fight was a skills contest against each other, it was a pleasure to share that first experience together. Both of us didn’t hold back, and we had three good rounds against each other.

What is the highlight of your career so far?

Elisha:

The highlight of my career so far was getting to the U46Kg national semi-finals this year, where I plan on becoming National Champion. It’s something that I have worked hard for. Last year, I got beat in the TTW finals boxing a good girl who had been a European silver medalist and a National Champion, where I’d again thought I’d done enough but got beat on a split decision.

Mackensie:

The highlight of my career was getting to the U40Kg National final, where I got a silver medal.  I then qualified to box for England in the Tri-Nations where I won a bronze medal  It was a special honour representing my country. 

What are your aspirations in boxing?

We both want to win a National Championship and become a National Champion. We want to eventually turn professional and become a British and a World Champion.  

What is the hardest thing about boxing?

Dieting. You see people eating things that you want to eat. But it’s worth it in the long run. After a fight, we can then have whatever we want.