BRADFORD College boxing coach Mally McIver has spoken of his pride at seeing student Jade Ashmore take on Olympian Mandy Bujold.

Ashmore was invited to Canada to fight Bujold, who finished fifth in the Rio Olympics last summer – and while the 30-year-old Canadian's experience won out, the teenager did herself and the college proud, according to McIver.

"Jade came to Canada to box a quality boxer, an Olympian, and boxed in the lion's den," he said.

"But what a star Jade is. It didn't faze her at all boxing Mandy Bujold, a superstar in Canada.

"Jade gave her a little bit too much to start with but once she settled into the fight, she gave Mandy plenty to think about.

"It was a cracking bout to watch. Jade didn't get the win but boxed superbly."

Ashmore reflected: "It was a privilege to box one of the best in the world – an Olympian. I gave it my best shot. I didn't get the win but got lots of experience from it."

The teenager's career has taken another leap forward with a call-up to the GB Boxing podium potential squad.

She earned selection after impressing coaches on the GB Boxing's women's assessment camp earlier this year.

Inclusion in the podium potential squad effectively makes the Bradford College student a professional athlete. She will attend training at the Institute of Sport in Sheffield from Wednesday to Saturday every other week, where she will work with national coaches and support staff.

Ashmore, who joins fellow Bradford College student Harris Akbar in the squad, is next in action at the English Elite Championship in London from April 21-23.