RUGBY star star Tom Walker returned to the boxing ring - all for a good cause.

Barrow Raiders supremo Tom previously trained as a boxer but made a switch to focus on his promising rugby career.

He returned to the boxing ring to raise funds for Mind and support mental health at the Cloud 9 nightclub on Dalkeith Street, Barrow, against competitor Glenn Riley.

Tom said: “I went to war with one of my best marras for a good cause.

“I love him to bits and can’t wait for this year of training with Just Grind, I’ve really got the taste for it.”

Ultimately he took a split points decision to win the bout.

Before returning to Cumbria to play for Barrow Raiders, Walker was signed to Warrington Wolves who play in the Super League.

His rugby background was clear to see in his physicality, he threw big looping shots over the top, hurting his opponent multiple times.

However, Riley had a granite chin and dished-out barrages of effective combinations on the inside.

Walker displayed the ability to take a shot in order to give a more significant shot of his own.

Coach Dave Straughton was pleased with his boxer’s performance.

He said: “Well done to my big pal Tom Walker, he showed nice skills and plenty power.”

In the build-up to the bout, Dave mentioned that it was good to have Walker back.

He continued: “He always had bags of potential and a great attitude as a young lad so I’m really looking forward to coaching him again and seeing him in action.”

Barrow Raider’s Boxing Evening, sponsored by Furness Park, sold-out the Cloud 9 venue.

Such was the demand for the event that a screen streamed the fight in the bar downstairs.

The main event also saw Teepol Ritson finish Kevin Robinson.

Highlights of the Barrow Raiders Boxing Evening can be found on their Facebook page.