Martin Murray probably showed enough class to edge it but 119-109 was a criminal scorecard. A bit worrying for Murray to only edge it against Rosado?
More of a boxing match between Murray and Rosado than expected. Murray spent too much time backed up against the ropes. He probably showed enough class to edge it but 119-109 was a criminal scorecard. A bit worrying for Murray to only edge it against Rosado who tends to lose to anyone good. Rosado will be a fun gatekeeper whereas Murray needs a slight step up. Andy Lee? Hassan N?Dam N?Jikam?
Zolani Tete may have had the performance of the night in defeating Arthur Villanueva for the WBO interim belt after Marlon Tapales was stripped. Tete is an extremely slick fighter with technical ability in spates. Fans may not find it as exciting as a slugfest but he is a supreme operator who gives everyone at the weight trouble.
The second most impressive performance probably came from ?Mini Mike Tyson? Avtandil Khurtsidze who was viscous in stopping Tommy Langford. That power is scary although you have to imagine that Saunders will be too clever for him.
Saunders clashed with Khurtsidze after the fight as the two were separated. Saunders looked very overweight which he alluded to. He told the Georgian that he already had him beaten and classically that Georgia was ?full of wankers.?
Tyrone Nurse is the Paulie Malignaggi of the domestic scene. No power but fabulous movement and countering. Joe Hughes drew him into exchanging and enjoyed success. It may have been a tad harsh but Nurse needs to be able to maintain his own game plan. I still feel Taylor, Catterall and Davies all walk through him. To get there he will have to defeat Hughes in a rematch.
John Ryder must be absolute hell to fight. He really troubled Billy Joe Saunders. Lots of the rounds were close. Fielding probably just about deserved his victory but I scored it to Ryder. Ryder made sure it was fought at his range and pace but the size and precision of Rocky told. Ryder belongs at middleweight.
The signing of Jamie Cox was also announced and pushed by the broadcast team. It will be considered a bit of a coup as he was a solid prospect for Frank Warren. The unbeaten southpaw from Swindon was a talented amateur and is unbeaten as a professional. The commentators suggested he would challenge for the British title against Fielding. Cox is a powerful, methodical fighter and should probably be favoured. It is a good signing for Hearn as Cox is more than deserving a spot on major cards.
Sean Dodd won in an interesting battle but neither looked top class.
Daniel Dubois and Anthony Yarde were impressive with stoppages. They have power. Let me know when either faces a live opponent.
Joe C?rdina was good. He is very quick and throws lovely combinations. Let me know when his opponents improve.
