HARVEY ORRISS floated like a butterfly and partied like a VIP after he and his belt got British Airways upgrades for a fabulous foreign win.
At the start of the month, the 20-year-old New Malden talent flew to Sweden for the respected King of the Ring amateur tournament.
The super-light ace cleaned up in his weight class and was crowned the No1 boxer out of the 600 who travelled to compete.
The modest Chelsea fan hadn’t planned on winning – let alone being named the boxer of the tournament – so he looked like facing a hefty fine when he flew home, for extra baggage.
But BA staff spotted the belt slung over his shoulder and – instead of hitting him in the pocket – they welcomed him up to first class and gave his hard-earned strap the seat next door.
Orriss told SunSport: “I have only been a senior for two years and I was disappointed with my previous two performances.
“I’ve also had two Team GB trials and not quite made it, so I didn’t save any room in my luggage for bringing a belt or trophy home.
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“But, halfway through the tournament, the big screen gave the crowd four fighters to pick for their favourite fighter – and suddenly something clicked.
“Soon I had a lot more luggage and the staff at the airport spotted me.
“I wasn’t trying to be flash with the belt, I just didn’t have anywhere left to stash it.
“Instead of charging me extra, the team bumped me up, introduced me over the PA system to the rest of the passengers and gave the belt its own seat.
“I also went from making weight to enjoying lots of free airplane food.”
With the help of single-dad Darren, Orriss trains full-time at Leo’s Gym in Hertfordshire, travelling most mornings for a three-hour round trip.
In the evenings he stays more local, tapping up more local gyms and talents for extra training sessions and sparring.
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It’s a thankless grind but it’s in his blood and his Swede success has now helped him further his hopes and dreams.
He explained: “Boxing has been in my family for generations.
“It’s a lot of travelling and a lot of work and sacrifice, not just for me but my dad as well.
“This was such a proud moment because the setbacks in boxing hit really hard and I have needed time away to make tough decisions.
“But this trip and win make it all worthwhile.
“And, in a few years time, hopefully we’re flying back from Las Vegas with a professional world title – and I won’t need the kindness of the airline staff to turn left, my A1 seat will already be booked.”
