Zelfa Barrett boxed very well and then scored a 10th round stoppage over Jordan Gill in a 12-round WBA International Super Featherweight title bout at The AO Arena in Manchester, England.

Barrett used a pinpoint jabs that set up body shots. In round 10, Barrett landed a hard body shot that put Gill to the canvas. Gill was hurt, and Barrett landed hard combinations that forced a referee stoppage at 2:44.

Barrett, 129.6 lbs of Manchester. ENG is 31-2 with 17 knockouts. Gill, 129.5 lbs of Chatteris, ENG is 29-3-1.

Scotney Defeats Lefbvre to become Unified Super Bantamweight Champion

Ellie Scotney retained her IBF and won the WBO Super Bantamweight Title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Segolene Lefbvre.

Scotney, 121.8 lbs of Carford, ENG won by scores of 99-91, 97-93 and 96-94 and is now 9-0. Lefbvre, 119.3 lbs of Douai, FRA is 18-1.

Dixon Decisions Carabajal; Wins Lightweight Title

Rhiannon Dixon won the WBO Lightweight championship with a 10-round unanimous decision over Karen Elizabeth Carabajal.

In round three, Dixon dropped Carabajal with a left hand. Later in the round, Dixon was cut over her right eye due to an accidental clash of heads. Carabajal was cut over her right eye.

Dixon, 134.5 lbs of Warrington, ENG won by scores of 98-91, 97-92 and 96-93 and is now 10-0. Carabajal, 134.5 lbs of Buenos Airies, ARG

Flynn Decisions Maharusi

Jordan Flynn won a six-round decision over Tampela Maharusi in a lightweight bout.

In round three, Maharusi was docked a point for holding.

Flynn, 134.3 lbs of Oxford, ENG won by a 59-54 score and is now 10-0-1. Maharusi, 134.5 lbs of Dar-Es-Salaam, TAN is 10-5-4.

The win by Flynn sets up a showdown with Cameron Vuong. Flynn shoved Vuong in the ring after the fight, and promoter Eddie Hearn said that fight will take place in June.

Gomez Jr. Stops Baker in 6

In a high contact fight, Michael Gomez Jr. stopped Kane Baker in round six of a scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout.

In round three, Baker was cut ever the right eye which looked to be caused by a head clash.

In round six, Gomez dropped Baker with a right hand. With Baker hurt, Gomez landed a hard right that put Baker on his back and the fight was stopped at 36 seconds.

Gomez, 129.1 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 21-1 with six knockouts. Baker, 129.4 lbs of Birmingham, ENG is 19-11-2.

Jack Turner stopped Abdul Kesi Ngaoma in round one of their six-round super flyweight bout.

In round round one, Turner landed a perfect right to the jaw that put Ngaoma on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:14.

Turner, 117.6 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 6-0 with six first round knockouts. Ngaoma, 116.1 lbs of Dar-Es-Salaam, TAN is 7-6-1.

Jimmy Sains remained perfect with a fourth round stoppage over Mateusz Kalecki in a six-round middleweight contest.

In round one, Kalecki was cut under his rigt eye. A cut then opened up over his left eye.

In round four, Sains was battering a bloodies Kalecki and the fight was stopped after a perfect right from Sains at

Sains, 162.3 lbs of Brentwood, ENG is 4-0 with four knockouts. Kalecki, 161.6 lbs of Brezno, POL is 2-2.

William Crolla remained undefeated with a first-round stoppage over Fabio Cascone in a six-round super welterweight contest.

In round one, Crolla dropped Cascone with a left to body that was followed up by a left to the head and he did not beat the count at 1:11.

Crolla, 154.1 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 4-0 with three knockouts. Cascone, 152.9 lbs of Latina, ITA is 4-10.

Brandon Scott won a six-round decision over Rodrigo Matias Areco in a bantamweight contest.

Scott, 135 lbs of Swansea, ENG won by a 58-56 score and is 7-0. Areco, 125.8 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 5-6-2.

Ste Clarke won a four-round decision over Jensen Irving in a middleweight contest.

In round two, Clarke dropped Irving with a left to the body.

Clarke, 161.5 lbs of Liverpool won by a 40-35 score and is 2-0. Irving, 163.1 lbs of Swindon is 4-10.

IBF World Champion Ellie Scotney says her nan will have the best seat in the house when she aims to unify the Super-Bantamweight division against France’s undefeated WBO ruler Segolene Lefebvre at the AO Arena in Manchester this Saturday – live worldwide on DAZN.

The 26-year-old Catford native, who fights in Manchester for the first time this weekend, won the IBF crown against Australia’s Cherneka Johnson on a memorable night at Wembley Arena last June and proudly raced it around to her super-fan nan.

Sadly Eileen passed away at the age off 99 at the end of August, but she witnessed her granddaughter achieve her lifetime goal of becoming a World Champion after walking into the renewed Lynn AC in South London as a small girl. Scotney says her nan will be at the front of her mind as she looks to add to her legacy by becoming a unified World Champion on Saturday’s World Title doubleheader.

“I always had this thing where I’d go down to my nan’s the week before a fight and I still did that for this one,” said Scotney. “I still went down to my nan’s; I still went in the room, and I chatted rubbish to her like I usually do. She always used to tell me that she’d say a prayer for me. I know that she’s got the best seat in the house as always. Nan always told me you’ve got to finish the collection, and we’re onto the second part of that collection and I’ve got to deliver.”

Lefebvre (18-0, 1 KO) will be making the fourth defence of her WBO crown after winning the vacant title against Mexico’s Paulette Cuesta in November 2021 on home soil. ‘Majestic’ will be fighting outside of her homeland for the first time in her career and Scotney acknowledges her 30-year-old opponent will be her toughest test to date. 

“Even before the Cherneka Johnson fight, Lefebvre was someone that we targeted,” said Scotney. “We tried to make the fight previously but it just didn’t align. Now I’ve got more to offer on the table and we’re both young, we’re both undefeated and we’re both World Champions. I believe that’s going to make for a great fight.

“I promise you now, whatever I’ve got to go through I’ll go through on that night. I’ll be walking out as unified Champion of the World. I just believe that these are the fights where you’ve got to show that you’re different. She’s 18-0 and I’m 8-0. You’d look at that and think that she’s got the more experience. I just think that it’s quantity versus quality in some respects.

“It’s my hardest fight without a doubt but believe me I’m more than ready to show that I’m there. I really am. I believe that this camp has showed me there’s more to me that I haven’t really even seen myself. I’m not just talking about in that boxing ring – I’m talking out of it. I feel like I’ve really grown as a person. I think it’s happening at the right time for me. Timing is everything and on Saturday night it will be my time.”

Scotney vs. Lefebrve is part of a huge night of boxing in Manchester, Jordan Gill (28-2-1, 9 KOs) and Zelfa Barrett (30-2, 16 KOs) clash in a must-win Super-Featherweight showdown at the top of the bill, Warrington’s Rhiannon Dixon (9-0, 1 KO) looks to win her first World Title when she takes on Argentina’s KarenElizabeth Carabajal (21-1, 3 KOs) for the vacant WBO 140lbs crown, Manchester’s Michael Gomez Jr (20-1, 5 KOs) defends his English Super-Featherweight Title against Birmingham’s Kane Baker (19-10-2, 1 KO), Liverpool Middleweight prospect Ste Clarke (1-0, 1 KO) meets Swindon’s Jensen Irving (4-9) over four rounds, Oxford Lightweight JordanFlynn (9-0-1, 1 KO) fights Tanzania’s Tampela Maharusi (10-4-4, 5 KOs) over 8 rounds, Liverpool Super-Flyweight Jack Turner (5-0, 5 KOs) goes for another knockout against Abdul Kesi Ngaoma (7-5-1, 6 KOs), Brentwood Middleweight Jimmy Sains (3-0, 3 KOs) has his fourth pro fight against Mateusz Kalecki (2-1, 1 KO), Manchester Super-Welterweight William Crolla (3-0, 2 KOs) faces Italy’s Fabio Cascone (4-9, 1 KO) over six rounds and Swansea Super-Bantamweight Brandon Scott (6-0, 1 KO) returns for his first fight since last August when he takes on Rodrigo Matias Areco (5-5-2) over six rounds. 

Jai Opetaia will make the first defence of his IBF and Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles against Jordan Thompson on a huge night of World Championship boxing at the OVO Arena Wembley on Saturday September 30 that also sees IBF Super-Bantamweight ruler Ellie Scotney make the maiden defence of her World Title against Laura Soledad Griffa, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

Opetaia (22-0 17 KOs) wrestled the IBF and Ring Magazine World Cruiserweight Titles away from Mairis Briedis on home turf with an outstanding display in Queensland, Australia in July 2022, outboxing the Latvian with a show of skill mixed with guts after breaking his jaw in both the second and final rounds.

The 28-year-old extended his unbeaten slate to 22 fights in the paid ranks on that famous night, landing World Title honours at the first attempt in a professional career that began in August 2015 after the imposing southpaw said goodbye to a glittering amateur stint that yielded gold in the World Junior Championships in 2011 and saw him become the youngest ever Australian Olympian fighter when he represented his country in at the 2012 Games in London.

He returns to London next month, putting his red and gold hardware on the line against Manchester’s undefeated contender Thompson (15-0, 12 KOs), who heads into his first shot at world honours on the back of a dominating sixth-round TKO win over Swindon’s Luke Watkins at the Cardiff International Arena back in Cardiff.

The 6′ 7″ powerhouse, who is trained by Tony Sims at the Matchroom Boxing Elite Gym in Essex, has won all five of his fights under the Matchroom Boxing banner since putting pen to paper on a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn in June 2021, picking up the IBF European Title but outpointing Vasil Ducar at the Sheffield Arena in August 2022.

Catford’s 122lbs queen Scotney (7-0) returns to the arena where she was crowned IBF World Champion in June, comfortably outpointing Australia’s former champion Cherneka Johnson on the undercard of Sunny Edwards’ shutout points win over Andres Campos.

Argentina’s Griffa (20-8, 1 KO) gets her second shot at the IBF Super-Bantamweight after falling short in her challenge against Marcela Eliana Acuna in August 2018. ‘La Joya’, who fights out of Pehuajo in Buenos Aires, has also challenged for the IBO Super-Bantamweight and Featherweight Titles and has won both of her fights in 2023.

Dangerous Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (6-0, 5 KOs) gets his first title shot – taking on former Chris Billam-Smith and Jordan Thompson opponent Vasil Ducar (14-6-2, 10 KOs) for the vacant IBF International Title and Warrington’s Rhiannon Dixon (8-0, 1 KO) meets Norway’s World Title challenger Katherina Thanderz (16-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant EBU European Lightweight crown.  

Billericay Middleweight George Liddard (4-0, 3 KOs) and Eltham Flyweight Maiseyrose Courtney (4-0) have a quick turnaround after picking up wins on the Joshua vs. Helenius undercard at The O2 in London earlier this month, Watford Super-Flyweight Shannon Ryan (5-0) fights for the sixth time as a pro and Tony Sims-trained Middleweight Jimmy Sains makes his professional debut.

“I have been waiting too long for someone to challenge me and now we finally have a fight,” said Opetaia. “Thank you Jordan for stepping up but I hope you are ready!”

“Opetaia is the recognised number one in the division and the best guy out there and that’s why he’s the one I want,” said Thompson. “This is my time now and the world will see that on September 30th. I ain’t never been one to just take part, I’m a winner, I’m going to win.

“Winning a World Title is every fighter’s dream but now I want more,” said Scotney. “I want to prove myself the best Super-Bantamweight in the world, but a true champion also has to be willing to defend her title. I wanted to stay active and getting to defend the belt in the same venue I was crowned World Champion gives me the ideal opportunity to show that there are levels to this sport On September 30 I will show just that.”

“I am very excited to be fighting for the World Title for a second time,” said Griffa. “Ellie Scotney is a very good and skilful boxer, but she doesn’t have the heart and toughness that I do. I am a true warrior and will bring war to London September. I will break her down bring the World Title back home to Argentina.”

“A huge World Title double-header at the OVO Arena Wembley on September 30 topped by IBF Cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia defending his crown against Manchester’s Jordan Thompson and Catford’s Ellie Scotney putting her IBF Super-Bantamweight crown on the line against Laura Soledad Griffa,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Jai’s win over Briedis was an historic moment for Australian boxing and solidified him as the number one in the Cruiserweight division. Jordan is showing huge courage by bypassing the domestic scene and jumping in with the best in his division for a shot at glory – he should get massive credit for grabbing this opportunity with both hands when others have avoided it. 

“Ellie has plans on unifying the Super-Bantamweight division and becoming a multi-weight World Champion but first she must get her first World Title defence under her belt. There’s plenty more title action on the undercard as Cruiserweight powerhouse Chev Clarke goes for the IBF International Title against the tricky Vasil Ducar and Anthony Crolla’s charge Rhiannon Dixon meets former Terri Harper opponent Katherina Thanderz for the EBU European Lightweight Title. Watch all of the action live worldwide on DAZN.”

“It’s great to have Jai debut on DAZN on September 30 in London,” said Alfie Sharman VP, DAZN. “Jai is one of the best in the division and with Jordan being tipped for a big future in the sport, this is going to be a cracker. Watch it live and exclusive on DAZN.”

Ticket information will be announced soon. 

Sunny Edwards made the fourth defense of the IBF Flyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decisions over Andres Campos at the OVO Arena in London.

Edwards, 111.1 lbs of Croydon, ENG won by scores of 117-111 on all cards and is now 20-0. Campos, 111.6 lbs of Santiago, CHL is 15-1.

Johnny Fisher remained undefeated with an opening round stoppage over Emilio Salas in a eight-round heavyweight bout.

Fisher sent Salas down with an overhand right. Salas got to his feet as the referee reached the count of 10 at

Fisher,238.4 lbs of Romford, ENG is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Salas, 229.9 lbs of San Sebastian, PR is 7-5-1.

Ellie Scotney won the IBF Super Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Cherneka Johnson.

In round six, Johnson was cut around the right eye.

Scotney, 121.4 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93 and us now 7-0. Johnson, 120.8 lbs of Melbourne, AUS is 15-2.

Cheavon Clarke stopped David Jamieson in round five of their 10-round cruiserweight fight

In round four, Clarke dropped Jamieson with an uppercut. In round five, Clarke dropped Jamieson again with a hard combination to the head and the fight was stopped at 35 seconds.

Clarke, 199.2 lbs of Gravesend, ENG is 6-0 with five knockouts. Jamieson, 199.1 lbs of East Kilbride, SCO is 10-3.

Nina Hughes retained the WBA Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Katie Healy.

Hughes, 117.3 lbs of Billericay, ENG won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91 and is now 6-0. Healy, 117.5 lbs of Wolverhampton, ENG is 6-1.

Reece Bellotti won a 10-round unanimous decision over Youssef Khoumari in a super featherweight bout.

Bellotti, 129.4 lbs of Watford, ENG won by scores 97-93, 97-94 and 96-94 and is now 16-5. Khoumari, 129.8 lbs of Wembley, ENG is 15-2-1.

George Liddard remained undefeated with a first round stoppage of Nikolas Dzurnak in a scheduled six-round middleweight fight.

In round one, Liddard dropped Dzurnak with a body punch. A moment later, Liddard put Dzurnak down with a left hook to the head. Liddard ended things as he jumped on Zurnak and a right hand put Dzurnak down for a third and final time at 2:29.

Liddard, 162 lbs of Billericay, ENG is 3-0 with three knockouts. Dzurnak, 160.5 lbs of Vyskov, CZE is 5-4-2.

Shannon Ryan remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Martina Bernile in a super flyweight bout.

Ryan, 115 lbs of Watford, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 5-0. Bernile, 114.4 lbs of Milan, ITA is 5-2-1.

Muhammad Ali won a four-round decision over Bryan Castro in a super bantamweight fight.

Ali, 123.8 lb of Leicester, ENG won by a 40-36 contest and is now 2-0. Castro, 123.3 lbs of Managua, NIC is 2-6-1.

NEW YORK — The recent announcement that Cherneka Johnson will defend her International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior featherweight title against Ellie Scotney has left the team of Maureen Shea perplexed and looking for answers.

Shea (30-2-1, 13 knockouts), rated no. 2 by the IBF, and Scotney, rated no. 1, had been ordered by the IBF on February 7 to face off in an interim title fight, which Scotney’s promoter Matchroom Boxing proposed for April 29 in Sheffield, England. Johnson suffered a major head gash during her most recent title defense against Susie Ramadan in October and was ruled unlikely to be ready to make a mandatory defense until at least June.

Shea and manager Luigi Olcese reached an agreement with Matchroom for the interim title fight. Shea’s team signed and returned the contracts to Matchroom on February 18, but the contracts were never executed by Matchroom and returned to the IBF before the deadline.

Now Shea is seeking justice after being pushed aside for a title opportunity that she has waited a long time for.

“This is bad for every female boxer out there. The IBF needs to step in. Matchroom did not negotiate in good faith or intend to make this fight. Matchroom’s economics should not dictate the opportunities to the sanctioning bodies,” said Shea, a native of The Bronx, N.Y. who now resides in Delray Beach, Fla.

As it stands, Johnson (15-1, 6 KOs) is expected to make her second defense of the belt against Scotney (6-0) on May 20 at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland. Shea, who is also half Irish, believes she should be next in line at the winner after being unfairly skipped over.

“Maureen should get an immediate shot at whoever wins this fight. We should get that in writing because we negotiated in good faith. We could have moved in a different direction but we didn’t. We passed over an opportunity to stay busy for this,” said Olcese. “This is bigger than Maureen Shea because it happened to her in this instance, but it’s happening to other females as well.”

Shea, a pioneer of the sport, is a former WBC interim featherweight champion who has been unbeaten for the past 14 years.

She last fought in May of 2022, outpointing veteran Calista Salgado in Queens, N.Y.

Katie Taylor retained the Undispted Lightweight world title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Karen Elizabeth Carabajal at The OVO Arena in London.

Taylor, 134.5 lbs of Bray, IRE won by scores of 99-91 and 97-93 and is now 22-0. Carabajal, 134.2 lbs of Buenis Aires, ARG is 19-1.

Former world champion Kiko Martinez upset Jordan Gill via fourth round stoppage in their scheduled 10-round featherweight contest.

In round three, Martinez dropped Gill with a right hand. Later in the round, Martinez sent Gill to the canvas with a right uppercut. In round four, Martinez dumped Gill with a perfect right to the head. Martinez ended things by landing a big left hook that put Gill down for a fourth and final time at 2:44.

Martinez, 124.8 lbs of Alicante, SPA is 44-11-2 with 31 knockouts. Gill, 125.8 lbs of Chatteris, ENG is now 27-2-1.

Johnny Fisher remained undefeated as he obliterated Dominik Musil inside of a round in their six-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Fisher dropped Musil with a overhand right. Fisher then ran after Musil and dropped him again with a two punch combination. Fisher then landed a plethora of right hands that forced a referee stoppage at 2:03.

Fisher, 233.4 lbs of Romford, ENG has a rabid fan base and they went home happy as Fisher upped his mark to 7-0 with six knockouts. Musil, 262.7 lbs of the Czech Republic is 7-5.

Ellie Scotney remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Mary Romero in a super bantamweight fight.

Scotney, 121.5 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 97-93, 97-94 and 96-94 and is now 6-0, Romero, 120.5 lbs of Murcia, SPA is 8-3.

In a battle of undefeated lightweights, Gary Cully destroyed Jaouad Balmedhi in a scheduled 10-round bout.

Cully landed one left to the chin that dropped and stopped Belmedhi at 35 seconds.

Cully, 135.5 lbs of Naas, IRE is 15-0 with nine knockouts. Belmedhi, 136.3 lbs of France is 16-1-3.

Mickey Ellison won a 10-round light heavyweight bout with a decision over previously undefeated Thomas Whittaker Hart.

Ellison, 174.9 lbs of Darwen, ENG won by a 96-95 score and is now 14-4. Hart, 174.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 7-1.

Jordan Reynolds remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Jose Manuel Lopez Clavero in a middleweight fight.

Reynolds, 163.1 lbs of Luton, ENG won by a 60-55 score, and is now 4-0. Clavero, 161.3 lbs of Granda, SPA is 16-19-1.

John Hedges remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Ales Makovec in a light heavyweight contest.

In round one, Hedges dropped Makovec with a body shot.

Hedges, 181.6 bs of Takeley, ENG won by a 60-53 score and is now 7-0. Makeovec, 180.2 lbs of Tabor, CZR is 3-1.

Maiseyrose Courtney made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Judit Hachbold in a flyweight bout.

Courtney, 113.5 lbs of Ektham, ENG won by a 40-36 score.

Joshua Buatsi remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Craig Richards at The O2 Arena in London.

Buatsi, 174.75 lbs of Croydon, ENG won by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice and is now 16-0. Richards, 174.25 lbs of Crystal Palace, ENG is 17-3-1.

Cameron Decisions Bustos; Retains Unified 140 lb. Titles

Chantelle Cameron defended the WBC/IBG Super Lightweight titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Victoria Bustos.

Cameron, 140 lbs of Northamptonm ENG won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 16-0. Bustos, 137.3 lbs of Rosario, ARG is now 23-.

Babic Decisions Balski

Alen Babic went the distance for the first time and won a 10-round unanimous decision over Adam Balski in a bridgerweight fight.

In round one, Balski dropped Babic with a left hook to the top of the head.

Balski was deducted a point for clocking and hurting Babic after hitting after the ninth round bell.

Babic, 208.4 lbs of Zagreb, CRO won by scores of 97-91 twice and 95-93 and is now 11-0. Balski, 210.2 lbs of Warsaw, POL is 16-2.

Scotney Decisions Roman

Ellie Scotney won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Cecilla Roman in a super bantamweight bout.

Scotney, 121.7 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 5-0. Roman, 121.7 lbs of San Juan, ARG is 16-7-1.

Davies Jr. Decisions Javier Molina

Robbie Davies Jr. won a 10-round split-decision over former United States Olympian Javier Molina in a super lightweight fight.

Davies Jr., 139.75 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by scores of 96-94 twice while Molina took a card 97-94.

Davies Jr. is 23-3. Molina, 139.75 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 22-5.

Cheavon Clarke remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Paweil Martyniuk in a scheduled six-round cruiserweight bout.

In round three, Clarke dropped Martyniuk with a body shot. Seconds later, it was another body shot that put Martyniyuk down and the fight was stopped at 1:10.

Clarke, 199 lbs of Gravesend, ENG is 2-0 with two knockouts.

Cyrus Pattinson remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Dimitri Trenel in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Pattinson dropped Trenel with a left to the body. Seconds later, a flurry of shots that were mostly to the body had the corner throw in the towel at 2:21

Pattinson, 150 lbs of Alnwick, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Trenel, 149.9 lbs of Dainville, FRA is 8-1.

John Hedges stopped Robert Baltrau in round three of a six-round light heavyweight contest.

In round three, Hedges landed a perfect left that sent Baltaru to the canvas. Baltaru got to his feet but the fight was stopped at 2:24.

Hedges, 182.7 lbs of Talkaley, ENG is now 6-0 with two knockouts. Baltaru, 181.2 lbs of Braga, PR is 2-1-1.

Shiloh DeFreitas remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Iliyan Markov in a super lightweight contest.

In round three, Markov began to bleed from his mouth. In round six, DeFreitas with a right to the body.

DeFreitas, 146.75 lbs of London won by a score of 60-54 and is now 4-0. Markov, 146 lbs of Sofia, Bulgaria is 6-20-2.

John Ryder scored the biggest win of his career with a 12-round split decision over former middleweight beltholder Daniel Jacobs in a super middleweight fight at Alexandra Palace in London, England.

Jacobs controlled the first half of the fight with is boxing. Ryder came on strong over the final half of the contest and won most of the inside battles by landing small combinations to the head.

Jacobs landed 123 of 651 punches; Ryder was 135 of 448.

Ryder, 167 lbs of Islington, ENG won two cards 115-113 and Jacobs took a card 115-113.

Ryder is now 31-5. Jacobs, 166.9 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 37-4.

Fisher Decisions Enguema

Johnny Fisher went the distance for the first time and won a six-round decision over Gabriel Enguema in a heavyweight bout.

In round one, Fisher was cut over his left eye.

Fisher landed 66 of 319 punches; Enguema was 36 of 158.

Fisher, 237 lbs of Romford, ENG, sold over 2,600 tickets for the fight, and won by score of 59-55 and is now 5-0. Enguema, 231.7 lbs of Madrid, SPA is 10-12.

Cash Survives Two Knockdowns; Decisions Madiev

Felix Cash had to get off the deck twice and a point deduction, but he was able to overcome those and won a razor thin 10-round unanimous decision over Magomed Madiev in a battle of undefeated middleweights.

In round two, Madiev dropped Cash with a left hook.

In round 10, Madiev dropped Cash again with a left Cash was bleeding over his left eye. Later in the round, Cash was deducted a point for holding. In between all of that, Cash was able to bank rounds and get the victory by scores of 95-92 twice and 94-93.

Cash landed 118 of 519 punches; Madiev was 131 of 417.

Cash, 159.6 lbs of Workingham, ENG is now 15-0. Madiev, 159.1 lbs of Russia is 15-1-2.

Scotney Decisions Guanini

Ellie Scotney remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jorgelina Guanini in a super bantamweight fight.

Scotney was cut over her left eye in round three from a clash of heads.

In round 10, Scotney was deducted a point for an elbow.

Scotney, 121.2 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 96-94 twice and 95-94 and is now 4-0. Guanini, 119.6 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 9-4-2.

Williams Stops Maciel in 6

Austin Williams remained undefeated with a 6th round stoppage over Javier Maciel in a scheduled eight-round middleweight fight

In round one, Williams dropped Maciel with a left on the ropes.

In round six, Williams dropped Maciel with a straight left to the body. Seconds later, he dropped him again with a combination to the body. Williams ended things with some more hard body work and the fight was stopped at 1:02.

Williams, 161.4 lbs of Houston, TX is now 10-0 with eight knockouts. Maciel, 166.3 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 33-16.

Hopey Price remained undefeated with a 4th round stoppage over Ricardo Roman in a super bantamweight contest.

In round one, Price dropped Ramon with a left hand. In round two Ramon’s face started to swell up badly.

In round four, the onslaught continued as Price dropped Roman with another left. Price had Roman in trouble in the corner and the bout was stopped at 1:09.

Price, 125 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 7-0 with three knockouts. Roman, 124.6 lbs of Durno, MEX is 14-13.

Pattinson, 150.2 lbs of Ashtington, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 3-0. Vazem, 150.9 lbs of Russia is 9-22.

Shiloh DeFreitas remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Alexey Tukhtarov in a welterweight bout.

DeFreitas, 143.6 lbs of London, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 3-0. Tukhtarov, 143.6 lbs of Russia is 4-24-6.

Lawrence Okolie scored a 6th round stoppage over former world champion Krzystof Glowacki to win the WBO World Cruiserweight championship at the SSE Arena in London, England.

In round five, Glowacki started to bleed over his right eye. In round six, Okolie landed a stabbing right to the body that sent Glowacki on his back. He got up but the fight was stopped.

Okolie, 199.6 lbs of Hackney, England is now 16-0 with 13 knockouts. Glowacki, 195 lbs of Walcz, POL is 31-3.

“I don’t think it has sunk in yet,” said Okolie. “It’s nice hearing you say it. I’m happy. For me, it’s more of a relief. The potential has been there for over a year. I’m happy to get the victory. Now and forever, I’ll be a World Champion.

“I was just really focused on putting on a good performance. I’m physically very strong and punch hard. I’m very fit, so I can win on just those attributes at a certain level. I really focused on not rushing any shots because he’s very dangerous with counter shots and he’s very heavy-handed. His jabs were very solid, so I had to be very meticulous in keeping the distance. It was a good clean performance.

“All of the British former World Champions wishing me good fortune really touched me – shout out to them. From every run that I ever did, losing all of that weight, deciding to take a risk, having my parents support me financially when I couldn’t afford to get the bus down to the gym for training. To see it all pay off with a World Title is a dream come true – never give up. We can just go on from here. I need to keep pushing myself to prove myself as the best.”

Cordina Decisions Kourbanov

Joe Cordina remained undefeated by winning a 10-round majority decision over Faroukh Kourbanov in a junior lightweight bout.

Cordina, 132,4 lbs of Cardiff, Wales won by scores of 98-93, 96-95 and 96-96 and he is now 12-0. Kaourbanov, 130.5 lbs of Liege, BEL is 17-3.

“I didn’t think it was close at all,” said Cordina. “I think he nicked one or two rounds, maybe three. I was comfortable and I didn’t really get out of second gear. I let him work a couple of times throughout the rounds, maybe I shouldn’t have. I got a good valuable ten rounds out of that and it’s something to build on. I’ll put on a better performance in my next fight.

“It wasn’t about just going out there and trying to blow him out of there. We knew he was tough, that’s why we chose him. Both of his losses before me were to European Champions. He’s gone the distance a lot of times, we knew he was durable. We got the rounds under our belt and I felt I hurt him a couple of times. He was cute at times.

“I had 16 months out of the ring. He came to win and that’s what I wanted. The hand felt fine, I let it go a few times. I didn’t want to overdo it. Tony told me to let the shots flow so that’s what I did. I shouldn’t have any problems with my hand now. It’s time to build on that. If I want to be a World Champion, I have to get past people like Kourbanov. I didn’t really get out of second gear.”

Fowler Takes out Fortea in 3

Anthony Fowler stopped Jorge Fortea at in round three of a scheduled 10-round super welterweight fight.

At the end of round three, Fowler landed a booming right hand that sent Fortea to the canvas. With Fortea hurt, Fowler was able to land a hard combination that crashed Fortea down againm and the fight was stopped at 3:08.

Fowler, 153.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 14-1 with 11 knockouts. Fortea, 152.9 lbs of Sueca, SPA is 21-3-1.

“I surprised myself, I’m not going to lie,” said Fowler. “I thought it was going to go to points. I half play myself down. He just went 12 rounds with a Russian 18-0 killer, IBF No.1. I’m boxing at a much lower level. I’m the first one to admit that.

“I get a few trolls sometimes telling me that I’m boxing at English Title level and they’re right, it’s not my fault. I’m asking for these big fights. I haven’t been getting them. I’ve said to Eddie, ‘throw me in mate, let’s see what I’m made of’. Try and get me smashed and let’s see how I get on.

“He went down from a stiff jab which I was surprised about. I heard Shane say, ‘don’t rush it’, but I knew there was ten seconds left so I thought ‘f*ck it’. I had to throw one bomb at least, luckily enough it landed. He was actually better than I thought he was going to be.

“The first round was even and in the second round he caught me with a good shot. The jab was landing but he was quite tricky. I started throwing to his body to slow him down. The finish was nice, it was a nice straight hand. I was glad he stayed down; it could have been a long night that.

“I could have cried in that ring; it means that much to me. My coach genuinely believes in me more than me. I’ve got the power in both hands and I’ve got the ability. Me and Metcalf is an unbelievable fight. I know he wants it; I’ve heard him talking about it. The whole city would be buzzing. Put me in with Garcia and I’ll beat him too.”

Scotney Decisions Gangloff

Ellie Scotney won a six-round unanimous decision Mailys Gangloff in a featherweight bout.

Scotney, 123 lbs of Catford, ENG won by a 59-55 score and is 2-0. Gangloff, 119 lbs of France is now 4-2.

“It was definitely a learning fight for me for sure,” said Scotney. “Normally in your second fight you’re going to box someone that’s not coming to win. She wasn’t an idiot; she’d had five fights. I learnt a lot from that and there’s a lot to build on. I’m thankful for that.

“She was very angry wasn’t she. She’s as tough as they come, and I think I’m going to benefit a lot from it. It’ll give me a kick up the backside. I’ve got a lot more work to put in, which I love doing. I’ve got a long way to go.

“It was my birthday this week, I’ve just turned 23, I want to push on and I know I’ve got it in me. Now it’s time to start delivering. Women’s boxing is going from strength to strength. Hopefully I can get on the undercard of one of the big ones in May.”

Billam-Smith Decisions Ducar

Chris Billam-Smith won a 10-round unanimous decision over Vasil Ducar in a cruiserweight bout.

In round two, Billam-Smith started bleeding from the mouth. In round four, Billam-Smith hurt Ducar with a counter right and then jumped on him with solid punches for a knockdown.

In round six, Billam-Smith dropped Ducar with a body shot.

Billam-Smith, 199 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG won by sores of 99-90 twice and 97-92 and is now 12-1. Ducar, 198.8 lbs of Brno, Czech Republic is 9-4-1.

“I felt comfortable in there at all times, even when he had his little spurts,” said Smith. “It was really good for me. I thought I was going to become the first man to stop him. I had him down a couple of times, but he was a tough tough man. If I was going to rate it out of ten, I’d probably give myself a 6.5 or 7 out of ten.

“I’ve got plenty to work on in the gym and I can improve a lot. The main thing was getting the win. I got that and I’m happy. I hit him with a great body shot, I felt it really sink in, and then I dropped him to the head as well. He was dipping and I was trying to hit him just over the top of his gloves. Those Czechs are tough and all respect to him.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t get the stoppage, but the main important thing was the win. I switched off a couple of times during the fight because I felt very comfortable. I let my hands get leaky probably two or three times during the fight and he clipped me, but I wasn’t buzzed or hurt at all. I saw everything coming so you can always take something out of the shots.

“I’ve definitely got improvements to make. That was my 13^th fight and I’m always about improving every day in the ring. I’m very grateful to have such great stablemates and such a great coach. I’d love to get the Tommy McCarthy fight as soon as possible.”

Ali Decisions Connolly

Ramla Ali remained undefeated with a decision over Bec Connolly in a sex-round featherweight bout.

In round five, Ali was cut around her left eye from an elbow.

Ali, 126.6 lbs of Bethenal Green, ENG won by a 60-55 score and is now 2-0. Connolly, 126.5 lbs of Swindon, ENG is 3-9.

“Apart from the shiner on my face I’m very satisfied,” Ali told Matchroom. “Regardless of what the scales said, I gave away about half a stone. I weighed-in in like two pairs of jogging bottoms just so I could match the weight. I felt the weight difference for sure, but I tried to not let her use her weight advantage against me.

“I tried to maintain the centre of the ring as much as possible, which I did. I’m really satisfied with how I performed. She’s tough but I got it done. Jobi always says you can’t beat the feet – and he’s right! I was always moving off from the double jab. We work a lot on footwork, and I feel like I did really well with my footwork.

“She was the one calling me out saying that she wanted to fight me. Don’t then turn around and complain that you’ve had short notice. You’re a professional, if I was calling someone out, I’d be ready any time. She said she had a couple of days’ notice. I don’t know what to say about that really.

“Everyone is nervous before getting in the ring because it means so much to you. You want to prove yourself and you want to show all of your friends and family that are watching at home that you’re worthy of watching. You want to put on a good performance and have a good fight. The moment that bell went all of the nerves went and I was razor focused on getting the job done. The Olympic dream is still alive and I’m still hopeful to go, and hopeful to compete. I’m still hoping to progress in my professional career.”

Lewis Ritson won a dubious 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Miguel Vazquez in a junior welterweight bout in Peterborough, England/

Vazquez landed 193 of 1001 punches. Ritson was 141 of 544.

Ritosn, 139.3 lbs of Forest Hall won by scores of 117-111, 115-113 and Vazquez won a card 116-113 to go to 21-1. Vazquez, 139.3 lbs of Mexico is 42-10.

“It just depends what you like doesn’t it,” Ritson told Matchroom afterwards. “He was tapping me and running away. I was hitting him with the cleaner jabs. It was very frustrating being out the gym a year and then facing that style.

It was probably more awkward than I thought it was going to be. The more the fight went on the more frustrated I got. It was a big eye opener. We’ve been mentioning the Prograis fight, tonight was a bit of an eye opener that we’re a million miles off that fight.

“We need a couple more fights like Vazquez, maybe not his style. That’s what you get when you step up. We had a hard job doing it. I’m improving as a fighter but I’ve got a lot more improving to do.”

Leach Decisions Ashfaq

Marc Leach won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Qais Ashfaq in a super bantamweight fight.

In round four, Leach dropped Ashfaq with a hard right off the clinch.

In round seven, Ashfaq was dropped with counter left that was followed by a left inside.

Leach, 121 lbs of Salford won by scores of 96-92, 95-92 and 95-93 and is now 15-1-1. Asfaq, 121.7 lbs is 9-1.

“I’m feeling over the moon,” Leach told Matchroom afterwards. “I’ve said before in previous interviews, the underdog tag means I’ve got nothing to lose and lots to gain. I felt good in there. Mine, Jamie’s and Nigel’s tactics worked to a T. Happy days.

“I felt like I had had him in trouble. Nigel and Jamie know that I’ve got power behind me. We moved up a weight as well. I presume he didn’t know I had that power. I believe in myself and it worked. Even at my weight, Bantamweight, I’m supposed to be next in line for the British Title. Whichever one comes first, I’ll happily take.

“Hopefully after one or two more fights at this level I won’t have to work anymore. This is the life I have chosen. I work nights, six until two. It’s not ideal but I’ve got kids to feed and a family to look after. Hopefully this turns into more opportunities for me.

In a battle of undefeated super lightweights, Rylan Charlton stopped Joe Laws in round three of scheduled six-round super lightweight.

In round one, Charlton dropped Laws with a left hook to the chin. In round three, it was another left hook that sent Laws down again. Carlton finished Laws off with a combination that sent Laws down for the 10-count at 1:39.

Charlton, 144.4 lbs of Norwich is 6-0-1 with three knockouts. Laws, 146.9 lbs of Benwell is 9-1.

“It’s what I expected,” said Charlton afterwards. “I’ve been training my ass off for this. No disrespect to Joe, I think he’s a great guy, a great boxer, but he’s a ticket seller. He sells loads of tickets to get into the positions that he gets in. He’s a good fighter and he’s a very nice guy. I have been training my ass off. I can’t really sell that many tickets. I’m the fighter. I’m just pleased I got the opportunity to showcase my skills. 

“I felt like it got a little bit scrappy at some point. I was trying to stay as composed as possible. I saw the opening and I stuck it up there. That’s all she wrote. I always knew that this would be the result. I trained too hard for it not to be the result. My power was too much.

“Pint Size Powerhouse all the way! He’s got a massive following and this won’t be the end of Joe. He’ll be back. This has just rocketed my career in the right direction. Eddie get this contract, and let’s go! Get me out before Christmas.”

Thomas Patrick Ward and Thomas Essomba fought to split technical draw in a super bantamweight fight.

In round seven, Ward was cut over the left eye from a hard head clash The got was bad with the eyelid split open and the fight was called after eight.

Essomba won a card 88-85; Ward won a card 88-84 and a 3rd card was even at 86-86.

Ward, 123.3 lbs of West Rainton is 29-0-1. Essomba, 123.2 lbs is 10-6-1.

“To be honest, the fight was close, but I knew I was better than him,” Essomba said afterwards. “We had the accident, and then the judges decided the outcome, I have to respect their decision. I didn’t see the head clash. I don’t know who’s fault it was.

“I’ve had a really long and good camp since my last fight against Sunny Edwards. If I would have had two or three more weeks’ notice then I could have prepared more for Tommy. I had six days’ notice. I know if we fight again the fight will be totally different. I will give him a rematch, any time and anywhere.”

Kane Baker won a six-round decision over previously undefeated Meshech Speare in a super lightweight bout.

In round two, Baker was cut around the left eye.

Baker, 138 lbs of Birmingham won by a 5-56 score and is now 14-7. Speare, 138 lbs of Liverpool is 5-1.

“I’m floating,” said Baker afterwards. “It’s amazing. I’ve been here a few times. That winning feeling is something else. When I fought Fiaz two weeks ago my corner was quite confident in how I was doing. Tonight, they were telling me I was losing every round! I did think I’d won, but you just don’t know.

“When I heard Birmingham first, I knew then and it was amazing. He caught me twice to be fair. He caught me with two good shots. He’ll be back again, he’s a strong kid. I hope it was a good fight for the fans. It was a lot tougher this time than it was two weeks ago. The two weeks off didn’t recharge me as much as I’d have liked. It was tough but I was never going to say no to being here. I bit down on the gumshield and toughed it out.”

Ellie Scotney made a successful pro debut with a six-round decision over Bec Connolly in a super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Scotney put Connolly on the canvas from a right hand that was followed by a perfect left hook to the head.

In round five, Connolly started to bleed around the right eye.

Scotney, 125.9 lbs of Catford won by a score of and is now 1-0. Connolly, 125.2 lbs is 3-8.

“Bec is a tough person and she came to fight,” Scotney told Matchroom afterwards. “It was brilliant to share a ring with her. She gave it her all. She’s a nice woman. I feel like I’ve got a lot to work on still. I’m 22 and boxing at the weight above, so now I’ll be going down to the weight I should be at and I’m so looking forward to getting out again.

“I rushed it a little bit. I got a bit carried away when I landed a shot. I’ve got a lot to work on. I’m buzzing to get the first one out of the way. It’s been a long time coming. I’m going to get back in the gym on Monday if Adam lets me. I love boxing.”

Worth the wait. That is the feeling of Ellie Scotney as she prepares to trade leather for the first time as a professional this weekend.

The 22-year-old had been scheduled to make her highly-anticipated professional debut on the undercard of the David Avanesyan-Josh Kelly European Title showdown at The O2 at the end of March.

Lockdown got in the exciting Londoner’s way but almost seven months on, her first contest is finally here as she faces Swindon’s Bec Connolly over six rounds in Peterborough, live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

“I’m just looking to get in there, I’m buzzing,” said Scotney. “It’s second time lucky after the first one got called off, I’m just grateful for the opportunity given the world we’re in at the moment.”

A smile is never far away from the bubbly Adam Booth-managed Featherweight who hopes to impose her thrilling style on the pro game.

“I like to do a bit of both, but I do like to get involved! I hope I don’t disappoint the fans, I do like to fight but hope I can be smart with it. I had 40 fights as an amateur and boxed all over the world.

“But pro boxing is a different game and I feel my style and my character is going to suit that, I just can’t wait to get in there. A career is short-lived so I’m going into it to enjoy every minute of it and make the most of everything.”

A highly-accomplished amateur, Scotney was tipped for an Olympic place in Tokyo but instead signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

Standing in her way at the East of England Arena is the experienced Connolly (3-7), who has fought a number of top girls including Terri Harper, Natasha Jonas and Rachel Ball. So what is Ellie expecting?

“I’m ready for a top Beccs turning up, I wouldn’t expect anything less,” she said. “I’m well prepared and ready to get down to work. Two weeks ago I handed in my resignation at B&Q, I think they were happy to receive it. This is the next chapter.”

Scotney vs. Connolly is part of a huge night of boxing at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, Geordie favourite Lewis Ritson (20-1, 12 KOs) takes on former long-reigning World Champion Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs), 2016 Rio Olympian Qais Ashfaq (8-0, 3 KOs) meets Salford’s Marc Leach (14-1-1, 3 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title, Joe ‘Benwell Bomber’ Laws (9-0, 5 KOs) takes on Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (5-0-1, 2 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Lightweight and West Rainton’s Thomas Patrick Ward (29-0, 4 KOs) fights Thomas Essomba (10-6, 4 KOs) over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight.

Ellie Scotney has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make her highly-anticipated professional debut on the undercard of David Avanesyan vs. Josh Kelly at The O2 in London on Saturday March 28. 

A shining amateur stint saw the London prospect win the 2017 Elite national amateur title at 57kg and the English Title at Youth level having entered after only four amateur bouts. She was in serious contention for a GB Olympic qualifying place for Tokyo 2020 before leaving the programme last year to pursue her pro career. 

Trained by renowned coach Adam Booth alongside Matchroom stablemates Josh Kelly and Shannon Courtenay, Scotney will begin her career at Featherweight next month as she looks to announce herself as the next star of women’s boxing. 

“I’m over the moon to be joining the Matchroom stable,” said Scotney. “I can’t wait for my debut at The O2, it all seems surreal at the minute! I’m counting down to fight night already. I’m joining a team that boasts a two-weight World Champion in Katie Taylor, the first British woman to win a World Title in Terri Harper and rising start Shannon Courtenay so I know that the sky is the limit with Eddie and my team.”

“I’m excited to announce the signing of gifted Adam Booth protege Ellie Scotney who will make her highly-anticipated professional debut on the undercard of Avanesyan vs. Kelly at The O2,” said Eddie Hearn. “Women’s boxing is absolutely flying at the moment and this is the perfect time for Ellie to start her journey in the professional ranks.

“We saw Terri Harper create history in Sheffield last week by dethroning long-reigning WBC Super-Featherweight Champion Eva Wahlstrom to become the first ever British woman to win one of the major World Titles and Irish hero Katie Taylor has been flying the flag for women’s boxing in recent years. 

“Ellie joins a thriving Matchroom stable and I believe she in the perfect place to develop her skills as she bids to become the latest major player in women’s boxing. The March 28 show at The O2 is shaping up to be another huge night of boxing so make sure you catch it all on Sky Sports and DAZN.”

General Sale tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) are available to purchase NOW from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).