In a shocking turn of events, Nick Ball's reign as WBA featherweight champion came to a brutal end in his hometown of Liverpool. The 12th and final round saw Brandon Figueroa deliver a devastating knockout, stripping Ball of his title in front of a stunned home crowd. But was this outcome truly inevitable?
As the fight neared its conclusion, the scorecards seemed to be the deciding factor. But Figueroa, the 29-year-old American, had other plans. With a powerful left-handed shot, he sent the champion crashing to the canvas, leaving Ball's fate hanging in the balance. And here's where it gets controversial: Figueroa's camp erupted in celebration, but their enthusiasm spilled over, causing chaos in the ring and a melee between the two teams.
Despite Ball's undefeated record in 24 previous fights, Figueroa refused to be intimidated. He weathered the storm and seized his chance in the final moments. Figueroa's left hand sent Ball to the canvas once more, and as Ball struggled to rise, Figueroa finished the job, dropping Ball onto the ropes and sealing his victory.
The fight was a closely contested affair, with Ball landing some significant blows, but Figueroa's higher punch volume proved crucial. Both fighters showed vulnerability in the eighth round, with Ball pushed onto the ropes and Figueroa losing his footing and going down. As the end approached, Ball attempted to raise the intensity, but Figueroa remained steadfast, ultimately emerging victorious.
This loss marks the first defeat for the previously undefeated 'Wrecking Ball' Ball, while Figueroa adds another world championship to his collection, becoming a three-time titleholder.
But the story doesn't end there. World Darts Champion Luke Littler witnessed his friend Luke Turner, a 20-year-old middleweight from Warrington, secure his first professional stoppage win. And now, all eyes are on Figueroa's next move.
Figueroa's impressive performance has caught the attention of Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh, who wants him on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez's highly anticipated comeback fight in September. Alvarez, having lost to Terence Crawford in his last outing, is set to return to the ring in Saudi Arabia, and Figueroa's recent triumph has positioned him as a potential contender. Alalshikh's social media post praised Figueroa's character and suggested a title defense on September 12 in Riyadh, as part of a 'Mexico vs the World' event headlined by Mexican superstar Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez.
So, what do you think? Was Figueroa's victory a fluke, or does he have what it takes to become a dominant force in the featherweight division? And will we see him on the undercard of Canelo's comeback fight? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
