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David Benavidez Dominates Anthony Yarde to Defend WBC Light-Heavyweight Title
In a high-stakes showdown in Riyadh, Anthony Yarde faced his third career defeat in a world championship bout, succumbing to a seventh-round stoppage at the hands of David Benavidez. The 34-year-old British contender, who had previously been halted by elite fighters Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev, encountered a familiar fate as Benavidez inflicted a severe bloody nose in the sixth round before ending the contest shortly after.
Benavidez, who transitioned to the light-heavyweight division only last year, successfully defended his WBC belt, extending his undefeated professional record to an impressive 31-0. Known as ‘The Mexican Monster,’ he has already begun hinting at a move up to cruiserweight, aiming to challenge Gilberto Ramirez for the WBA and WBO titles in the near future.
Yarde Reflects on Tough Loss and Future Uncertainty
Post-fight, Yarde expressed respect for his opponent’s skill and power during an interview with BBC Radio 5Live. “He’s an incredible fighter,” Yarde said. “I knew his style going in, but he caught me with a sharp shot on my nose towards the end. I felt the fight was competitive, but his speed and precision made the difference.”
Despite the setback, Yarde remained defiant, emphasizing his resilience: “I’m a fighter, and I gave it my all.” However, with this being his fourth professional loss, his trainer Tunde Ajayi admitted the camp was disheartened. “Benavidez is a formidable opponent, which is why many avoid facing him,” Ajayi commented. “We had hoped to come on stronger in the later rounds, but it wasn’t to be.”
Devin Haney Secures Third World Title with WBO Welterweight Victory
In the event’s co-main attraction, Devin Haney made history by capturing the WBO welterweight championship, defeating fellow American Brian Norman Jr via unanimous decision. The 27-year-old showcased his tactical prowess by flooring Norman in the second round and maintaining control with a precise jab throughout the fight.
The judges scored the bout 114-113, 117-110, and 116-111 in Haney’s favor, cementing his status as a three-division world champion. Haney, now boasting a flawless 33-0 record with 15 knockouts, previously held titles at lightweight and super lightweight. Earlier this year, he defeated Jose Carlos Ramirez in a 12-round welterweight contest held in New York’s Times Square.
Sam Noakes Impresses Despite Narrow Defeat in WBO Lightweight Title Clash
Earlier in the evening, Kent’s Sam Noakes earned praise for his gritty performance in a closely contested battle against Abdullah Mason for the vacant WBO lightweight title. Noakes endured a severe cut above his left eye caused by an accidental headbutt in the third round but continued to engage fiercely, trading heavy body shots with Mason.
Ultimately, Mason secured a unanimous decision victory with scores of 115-113, 117-111, and 115-113. Despite the loss, Noakes’ tenacity and heart were evident, signaling a promising future in the lightweight division.
