Here is a quick Sunday round-up from the boxing action this weekend.
So after my predictions on the lead up to this weekend, the biggest shock came from the Kovalev vs Alvarez match-up. The Colombian “Storm” Eleider Alvarez, caused a huge upset as he knocked out Sergey Kovalev in convincing fashion to claim the WBO world title. (A result I did not see happening!) Kovalev came out the stronger of the two fighters through the fight, as he wanted to prove to the world that he was still best light-heavyweight. However, in the seventh round Alvarez came out shocking everyone as he put Sergey onto the canvas three times in dramatic fashion to get the knockout! Alvarez said:
“I just can’t describe how I feel… I wanted to show him that I am strong, I have a good chin and am ready for big things.”
Eleider Alvarez dropping the hammer on former light heavyweight kingpin Sergey Kovalev. pic.twitter.com/xzV861ncnx
— Daniel Attias (@Dan_Attias) August 5, 2018
This a huge win for Alvarez and he has definitely opened up the light-heavyweight division, for Kovalev this is a massive defeat for him and arguably worse than the second defeat to Andre Ward. What now for the once highly feared Russian? Possibly an all Russian clash with Dimitry Bivol or why not try challenge Adonis Stevenson? Either way, it will be his last chance to show the world he has what it takes.
Speaking of Bivol, he went through twelve rounds with the awkward style of Isaac Chilemba, winning the bout as a unanimous decision to retain his WBA belt. A knockout was predicted by many for Bivol, (including myself) but maybe this shows that he still has more to prove before he can be regarded as the best light-heavyweight.
Across in the Wales in the UK, hot prospect Joe Cordina had his toughest challenge yet as a professional against Sean Dodd in a Commonwealth title clash. It was interesting fight to watch, but Cordina still has a lot to learn at this level. I felt he was absolutely fantastic on the outside, slipping and using his jab effectively, however once Dodd got on the inside, he struggled massively. With youth on his side, I’m sure he will improve in this area, but right now I’m not convinced he’ll be amoung the best lightweights – time will tell.
Down under, Tevin Farmer earned his first world title in Australia over Dib as he claimed the IBF super-featherweight title. Farmer called Devonta Davis after the fight, which would be interesting match-up (if it was to happen). Dib also announced his retirement after the fight, fair play – looked to of had a decent career.
Finally to wrap up, I set up my Social Media profiles now for “Boxing Life”, would appreciate any likes/follows – lots of content will be posted on these in the coming weeks!
Thanks and have a good upcoming week!
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