Stephen Fulton joined Murodjon Akhmadaliev to become the unified super bantamweight champion after defeating Brandon Figueroa in Las Vegas last night.
Expectations for their 122lb bout built as the fight drew closer and the fight met fans’ expectations in a thrilling encounter. Despite Figueroa’s post-match claims that the result was a heist, Fulton was rewarded for his precise efforts to become WBO and WBC champion following the majority verdict.
There was a pattern to the skirmish early on, which resulted in Figueroa pressing forward, forcing Fulton to think on his feet for a split second to launch shots with his back foot and on the rope. Whatever Philadelphia is landing on doesn’t stop the Texan’s relentless defiance, who threw the sink at any opportunity.
It was a close tie throughout with Figueroa attempting to kick Fulton with long and right shots as well as body shots. While Fulton will land keys on eye-catching and more diverse arsenal as the fight goes on. Fulton appeared in trouble in 10NS loop when caught by the left hook but recovers himself to return to what he had successfully done before that alarming moment.
Jim Gray’s post-fight interview for Showtime seems to set up a rematch between the two. That was refuted when Figueroa gathered to confirm that he would be promoted to featherweight. For Fulton, his quest to become undisputed was nearing an end. All that stands in his way is Murodjon Akhmadaliev.
Main image: Showtime Boxing
