Wow, Derek Chisora’s performance against Joe Joyce was absolutely “extraordinary,” if by extraordinary you mean predictably rugged and determined. Throughout the fight, Chisora showcased that undying spirit—really, it just won’t die—by charging at Joyce like a bull with a career-long headache. His ability to fling that devastating overhand right almost made us forget the times he missed.
Despite looking like he might collapse from exhaustion at any moment, Chisora’s heart miraculously didn’t falter. He kept lunging forward, throwing bombs, even managing to knock down Joyce in a moment so thrilling it almost justified the ticket price. This fight certainly cemented Chisora’s status as a legend, in his own mind and to those who adore relentless brawlers.
Chisora’s career, marked by a never-say-die attitude and a flair for dramatics, has made him a crowd favorite. He’s the type of fighter who fills the arena with energy, even if it’s just by making fans wonder if he’ll make it to the final bell. A future Hall of Famer? If there’s a wing for sheer guts and stubbornness, sure. His eventual retirement will leave a gaping hole in the boxing scene, probably the size of the dent he’s left on many opponents.
He will be remembered not just for his ability to take and give a punch but for the sheer, unadulterated drama he brings into the ring. Really, what will we do without Derek Chisora’s never-ending rounds of defiance and destruction? The sport will definitely be a tad quieter, a bit less bruised, and maybe a touch more dull. Cheers to Chisora, the man who never knew when to quit!
Itauma wipes the floor with Wach! MOses Itauma basically dismantled Mariusz Wach in what could hardly be called a fight. Just a minute into the second round, Itauma unleashed a left-right-left combo that had Wach bouncing off the corner post like a ragdoll. Moments later, another similar sequence sent Wach crashing to the mat in the middle of the ring. The finale? A rapid-fire flurry from Itauma, pummeling Wach into silence until the ref had to jump in and save Wach from turning into a punching bag. The whole ordeal was less of a battle and more of an execution—quick, brutal, and utterly one-sided!
Dennis McCann just added a European title to his ever-expanding trophy collection, proving yet again that some people just get all the talent. The judges dished out scores of 120-108 and 117-111, twice, practically handing McCann a unanimous decision on a silver platter. It was dubbed his best performance yet. When you’re 23 and stacking titles like this, every night might just be your best night.
Barney-Smith Clinches WBO Youth Title in a Snooze Fest at the O2: With scores like 79-73 and a couple of 78-74s, it was less of a battle and more of a leisurely stroll through the park for Barney-Smith, who nabbed a unanimous decision without breaking much of a sweat. A first belt for Barney-Smith, and now we’re supposed to believe “big things” are on the horizon. Sure, if you count managing to stay awake as a big thing. The fight trudged to the distance with a competitive final round—because apparently, they remembered they were in a fight and not a dance rehearsal. Barajas threw a few pity rounds in there, but let’s be honest, ‘Sugar Boy Roy’ could have texted his way through those and still come out on top.
Sean Noakes has just upgraded his resume by clinching the English welterweight title, but don’t hold your breath for a thrilling knockout highlight—this one went the distance. The judges rolled out scores of 97-94 and a pair of 96-94s, all nodding in Noakes’ favor, as he scooped up the vacant title with a unanimous decision. The scorecards were tighter than a pair of skinny jeans, which was a bit of an eyebrow-raiser, but it looks like Bassi’s gritty performance nearly gave the judges a hard time keeping up. A bit closer than expected? Absolutely.
Aadam Hamed Clinches Win at O2: Like Father, Like Son? Maybe Not Yet: Aadam Hamed, son of the flamboyant Prince Naseem Hamed, has been dishing out a blend of head and body shots, nothing to make you spill your drink but enough to keep his opponent, Georgi Velichkov, on his toes—and in survival mode. Velichkov isn’t just there to fall over; the guy’s got some grit. By the end, Hamed had him outclassed and outpunched, with the ref giving all four rounds to Hamed for a squeaky-clean 40-36. That’s 2-0 for Hamed now. Not quite a chip off the old block, but hey, he’s getting the job done.
Brandun Lee made a grand entrance into the Queensberry fold, managing to outmaneuver Juan Anacona over eight rounds with a score of 78-74. Cheers to his 29th win.
Raven Chapman also decided to join the ‘almost knock-out’ club, teasing the crowd with a near stoppage of Yohana Sarabia, only to settle for a dominating unanimous decision of 100-90. Chapman retains her WBC international featherweight title and, oh yes, her untouched record now sparkles at 9-0.
Jermaine Dhliwayo, a.k.a. Derek Chisora’s nephew kicked off the night with a debut that was… well, a win is a win, right? He scored a victory on points against Engel Gomez, and surely, the family Whatsapp group is buzzing.
Umar Khan didn’t miss out on the fun in the opening fight, steamrolling over Kaddour Hmiani to claim his 10th win.
