Pound for Pound star dazzles British fans in impressive victory over very game Hull fighter Luke Campbell.
At London’s 02 Arena last Saturday, former GB Gold Medallist Luke Campbell put in a brave showing against Pound for pound number 1 Vasyl Lomachenko, who defeated the home fighter via unanimous decision for the WBC, WBA & WBO Lightweight world titles.
Campbell was able to hold his own and land successfully against the Ukrainian champion early in the fight, despite Lomachenko seeming always in firm control. By the 5th round the fight started to shift more firmly in Vasyl’s favour as he ripped into the Hull man with body shots and a barrage of punches to the head, Campbell managed to remain standing until he was saved by the bell.
In the 6th, Lomachenko continued his offence and continued to land regularly with hooks round the side of the guard, body shots and his stiff southpaw jab. Despite this, Campbell was able to rally and get his own shots off, showing his home fans some serious grit and bravery as he landed on the multi-weight champ. Lomachenko even remarked after the fight that “Yes he hurt me, he has big power”.
In the 11th, the fight looked like it might be coming to an end early for Campbell, who was dropped by a combination of body shots and a hard jab, however, the Hull warrior bit down on his gum shield and saw out the contest until the end. Despite losing on all cards, and losing all but 1 close round, Campbells stock in world boxing has arguably rose due to his bravery, continued pressure and some impressive punching.
On the undercard, Hughie Fury was defeated on points by Russian veteran Alexander Povetkin. Joshua Buatsi scored a stoppage victory in round 7 over tough challenger Ryan Ford and Charlie Edwards contest against Julio Cesar Martinez Aguilar was ruled a no contest after the Mexican hit Edwards whilst he was down.