Castle Hill kickboxer ready for Toukley cruiserweight title bout

In his mind, kickboxer Charles Joyner is already the best amateur fighter in the country - and the upcoming title bout against Mackenzie Cunningham is just a way to solidify that.

Kickboxer Charles Joyner has only been training in kickboxing for three years and will be competing for the Australian cruiserweight title in March. Picture: Angelo Velardo

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He might not have a title around his waist, but Charlie Joyner knows he is the best amateur kickboxer in the country.

The Castle Hill local’s cruiserweight title bout against Mackenzie Cunningham next month is merely a formality.

After all, he’s already beaten the champ once.

“I fought him in September 2018 (in a non-title fight) and beat him via a first round knockout,” the 23-year-old said.

“My expectations are that I am going to see a better version of Mackenzie than the last time I faced him.

“He is the champion and we will be in his hometown (Toukley) so he will feel that he has a point to prove.

“He will also be wanting to redeem himself, so I imagine he will be training extra hard.

“Despite all this, I am extremely confident that I will get the same result as last time.

“I have been constantly improving since September, and have added plenty of tools to my arsenal.

“In my mind, I’m already the best amateur kickboxer in Australia- the belt will just solidify it.”

Since he first began kickboxing with Evolution gym in Rouse Hill and Castle Hill in 2016, Joyner has dominated the amateur scene on his way to an undefeated 7-0 record.

After he claims the Australian title, Joyner has his sights set on making an impact outside of the ring as well.

“My ultimate goal is to change the public’s conception of the sport and its participants,” he said.

“There is a misconception that fighters are aggressive individuals, looking to cause harm. My time in the sport has shown me quite the opposite.

“I have met the most genuine and kind-hearted people doing this sport.”

Joyner is fighting for the Australian cruiserweight kickboxing title at The Beachcomber, Toukley on Saturday, March 30.