In a display that will undoubtedly be etched into boxing history, Hamzah Sheeraz delivered a thunderous knockout of Edgar Berlanga, asserting himself as a serious contender in the super middleweight division. The fight, held in the iconic Louis Armstrong Stadium, was nothing short of a rollercoaster — starting with Sheeraz’s apparent struggles before erupting into an electrifying blitz in the fourth round that showcased his ferocity and precision.
Initially, Sheeraz appeared to be outpaced and outboxed, which might have led some to believe that Berlanga’s power and aggressive style could be the difference-maker. But beneath the surface, Sheeraz’s resilience was brewing. The pivotal moment arrived when he unleashed a rapid-fire combination, demonstrating a level of timing and accuracy that caught Berlanga completely off guard. The sequential uppercuts and hooks drove Berlanga face-first to the canvas, marking a dramatic change in the fight’s momentum.
Berlanga’s subsequent rise and return to his feet revealed his resilience but also his vulnerability. Bleeding and wobbly, he lacked the stability to defend himself effectively. Sheeraz seized the opportunity, relentlessly attacking until the referee intervened at just 17 seconds into the fifth round. This resounding knockout not only solidified Sheeraz’s WBC title eliminator victory but also sent a clear message: he is a force to be reckoned with in the division.
Sheeraz’s confidence now bloom into ambitious plans, explicitly stating a desire to confront the legendary Canelo Alvarez. His declaration reflects a fighter who believes in his potential and is unafraid to seek the brightest challenges, making his future battles worth watching.
Judicial Bias or Strategic Misjudgment? The Undefeated Myth Being Challenged
While Sheeraz’s victory was a highlight, the night also cast a critical glare on the controversial judging throughout the event. Shakur Stevenson’s uneventful unanimous decision over William Zepeda exposed a persistent issue in boxing: the integrity of the scoring system. Despite Zepeda’s aggression and effective punching, the judges awarded Stevenson all but one card, with scores reflecting a fight that many saw differently.
As an observer, it’s impossible not to question the fairness of the judging, especially considering Zepeda’s active approach and cleaner shots. The scorecards, favoring Stevenson 118-110 twice and 119-109, suggest a bias that raises suspicions about the amateurish divisions that often permeate boxing’s highest levels. For someone who values skill and effective aggression, the scoring felt skewed, highlighting the sport’s ongoing struggle with impartiality.
In the same vein, Subriel Matias’s gritty victory over Alberto Puello showcased a different truth — that relentless pressure and strategic dominance can overturn scoring controversies. Despite extensive holding from Puello, the judges awarded Matias a majority decision, acknowledging his consistent aggression and fighting spirit. This fight served as a reminder that the true measure of a fighter’s ability often lies in their perseverance under rough circumstances, even when faced with unfavorable refereeing decisions.
The Underdogs and Surprises: Forging New Legends
Not all winners were celebrated for their star power or previous wins. Younger prospects, like Reito Tsutsumi, demonstrated that the future of boxing remains vibrant amidst the chaos of upsets and underdog victories. Tsutsumi’s quick dismantling of Michael Ruiz illustrates a promising talent not afraid to impose his will early, securing a second-round TKO through calculated pressure and precision striking.
Similarly, David Morrell’s fight against Imam Khataev was a testament to resilience, as he was knocked down early but refused to surrender. His ability to rally in the late rounds and narrowly secure the victory epitomizes the mental toughness necessary for greatness. Morrell’s journey reminds us that setbacks often pave the way for the most profound comebacks, and that perseverance remains essential for any aspiring champion.
In a landscape dominated by complex narratives of dominance, controversy, and redemption, the fighters’ stories — whether of defeat or victory — enrich the sport with depth and emotion. From seasoned warriors to promising prospects, each bout adds a chapter to boxing’s ongoing saga of grit, strategy, and unyielding desire to triumph.