IT WAS about more than just the fight for David ‘one more’ Round in Gloucester this month when he took on the highly regarded Steve Smith at ‘The Champions Rises’ event.

Round and Smith headlined the show in their K1 middleweight contest, organised by Mortal Kombat Promotions, and went the distance after five intense three minute rounds before home fighter Smith was given the verdict.

And despite defeat, Round admitted he had pleased the pair had put on such a good battle for the sold out crowd at Liquid Nightclub.

“I had him down in the second and the fourth round and thought I’d done enough to pinch it,” said the 30-year-old.

“But I’m still pleased with the fight and how I performed, and we both put on a really good show.”

The Milford man however, who next fights in Kent in June, is yet to return to training since, although at least has been able to laugh about the reason why.

“I collapsed in the ring afterwards because of the fatigue in my legs from non-stop kicking and taking shots myself. I’ve still got the bruising and had to be carried to the car afterwards.”

But on a serious note, the event itself was associated with a far more significant story.

Proceeds from the night went to Aurelia Saunders, a local girl born in September 2015 with Group B Strep, who as a result now suffers with cerebal palsy, global development delay, epilepsy and severe reflux of the kidneys.

Before his fight, Round took time during the day to meet her, presenting her with a teddy bear and a new dress, before donating all commission from ticket sales to her Just Giving appeal.

“She’s a lovely little girl and it was great to be able to meet her and donate some money to help,” he said.

Round received widespread praise for the gesture and added: “Her parents were happy with me doing it so it was a pleasure.”

Following his fight in Kent, Round is scheduled to return to Wales to fight in Swansea on July 8.

  • Round, of the Fight Agency, also asked to issue his gratitude to sponsors LPA Impact, Support 81, Granicol Ltd, Bad Boy Supplements, L Greggain & Co Ltd, Steve Evans at Studio 9 Custom Tattoo, Training Mask, Stuart Lloyd Carpentry, Sweet Treat, JP Scaffolding, Battle Body Clothing, Ian Smith Builders and Pain Game.