EAGLEHAWK'S Ben Costello celebrated a successful defence of the welterweight crown at the Victorian Amateur Boxing League championships run on Saturday night at Melton.

Costello, 18, fought Ed Abel in the 63 1/2kg showdown.

The Costello-Abel bout was one of four that involved boxers from Bendigo.

The pugilists from the Muay Thai Boxing Academy and Bendigo Martial Arts Centre endured highs and lows throughout the night's action.

Unbeaten in the past two years, Costello won all four rounds, which lasted two minutes.

A flurry of punches led to an eight-count against Abel just seconds before the end of the third round.

"Ben's focus and the way he boxed was fantastic," said trainer Frank Pianto.

"Ed was a classy southpaw who moved well."

Costello went into the contest having achieved six wins and a draw.

The drawn contest with Tasmanian champion Antyony Barnett at Weeroona College in Bendigo earlier this year earned the VABL's fight of the year award.

"Ben has won the award the past two years, so we were rapt," Pianto said.

Costello weighed in at 61kg for the championship showdown and will now focus on the Australian championships to be fought in Parkes, not Campbelltown as previously advised, from November 28 to 30.

"We are looking at Ben fighting in the lightweight division (61kg) at what will be his first nationals," said Pianto.

A long-time trainer, Pianto said Costello had gained plenty of support in the lead-up to the state championships.

Acknowledged for their support were Costello's employer, T-Rose Bakery, Pat and Garry Connelly and the Bendigo Boxing Academy for sparring sessions, and also Scott Hosking at the Red Mosquito.

Although the focus will be on training, Costello is hoping to gain some financial backing for the nationals.

Interested sponsors, businesses or individuals, are urged to contact Frank Pianto on 0401 027 48.

Another highlight at the state titles was the victory by Bendigo teenager Adam Brown in the novice 71kg class.