1. David Benavidez Shines in Light Heavyweight Debut
LAS VEGAS — David “El Monstro” Benavidez made a triumphant debut in the 175-pound division, outclassing former world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk to win a unanimous decision and claim the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight World Title. Benavidez, showcasing a blend of technical prowess and raw power, secured the judges’ scores of 116-112, 117-111, and 119-109.
2. Benavidez’s Tactical Mastery
Despite injuring both hands during training camp and suffering a cut three weeks before the fight, Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs) demonstrated resilience and versatility. “I went up in weight, won every single round, and dominated a former world champion and an Olympian,” he said, expressing pride in his performance despite the physical setbacks.
3. Gvozdyk’s Valiant Effort
Gvozdyk (20-2, 16 KOs) fought bravely, throwing punches in bunches and landing several clean shots. However, he couldn’t keep up with Benavidez’s relentless pressure. “I obviously wish we got a different decision tonight,” Gvozdyk admitted. “I think the scores were pretty accurate. It was a good fight, a close fight.”
4. The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division
Benavidez hurt Gvozdyk multiple times but couldn’t secure a knockout. Looking ahead, Benavidez is eager for more challenges in the division, stating, “I’m looking forward to what’s next in the division.”
5. Gary Antuanne Russell vs. Alberto Puello: A Split Decision Thriller
In a thrilling co-main event, Alberto Puello (23-0, 10 KOs) defeated Gary Antuanne Russell (17-1, 17 KOs) via a 12-round split decision to capture the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Championship. The fight was a back-and-forth battle, with both fighters having their moments. Judge Dave Hudson scored it 118-109 for Russell, while Tim Cheatham and Glenn Feldman had it 114-113 and 115-112 for Puello.
6. Puello’s Joyful Victory
Puello expressed immense joy after his victory, saying, “I got down on my knees and the first thing I did was thank God. It feels great to be a champion; this will mark the beginning of a new chapter in my life.”
7. Carlos Adames Retains WBC Middleweight Title
Carlos Adames successfully defended his WBC Middleweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Terrell Gausha. Adames controlled the fight, with scores of 119-109, 118-110, and 118-110 reflecting his dominance. “This is very satisfying,” Adames said. “The best is yet to come!”
8. Kyrone Davis Defeats Elijah Garcia
Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis (19-3-1, 6 KOs) handed Elijah Garcia his first defeat via a 10-round split decision. The judges scored the fight 97-93 and 98-92 for Davis, while one judge had it 97-93 for Garcia. Davis’s early lead and strategic counterpunching were key to his victory.
9. Mark Magsayo Outpoints Eduardo Ramirez
Former world champion Mark Magsayo (26-2, 17 KOs) scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Eduardo Ramirez (28-4-3, 13 KOs). Magsayo’s power and aggression were decisive, earning him scores of 97-92 twice and 99-90.
10. Justin Viloria Shines with TKO Victory
Sensational super featherweight prospect Justin Viloria (6-0, 4 KOs) secured a fifth-round TKO win over Angel Contreras (15-9-2, 9 KOs). Viloria dominated from the outset, landing three body shot knockdowns before the fight was stopped at 2:02 of the fifth round.
