THE RESULT: Venezuelan power puncher Ismael Barroso proved he is still one of the most dangerous men around by ruining the American debut of Britain’s Ohara Davies. The super-lightweight contest had barely warmed up before Barroso demonstrated that age (40) is but a number by wrecking the ambitions of Davies in less than 90 seconds during the opening round.
KEY MOMENTS: The explosive and unexpected first knockdown in the opening frame. Davies threw a straight right to Barroso’s body which in turn was met with a short-left hook that shook Davies. And as he staggered back to the ropes the Londoner was hit with another three shots that resulted in him dropping to the canvas.
RECORDS: Barroso’s 19-year record now looks like 25-4-2 (23) while the devastated Davies is hit with a third career defeat and now has a slate of 25-3 (18).
TALKING POINT: The decision of referee Celestino Ruiz to not allow Davies a chance to continue after the second knockdown. Having got to his feet for a second time Davies looked out of it while Ruiz counted to eight. Davies was then seemingly asked if he was okay to continue to which he could be seen answering, “I am”, but another look into his eyes gave Ruiz reason to wave the fight off.
QUOTABLE: “After that first punch, I knew that I had him, I knew it was a good punch,” the winner said. Having lost out controversially to Rolly Romero last year Barroso added, “The people have been asking for Rolly. Romero I’m right here.”
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? WBA super-lightweight mandatory challenger Barroso will hope to land a rematch with belt holder Romero who stepped on to the ring apron to congratulate the victor. However, Ryan Garcia’s call-out of the outspoken American may change those plans. Davies will have to lick his wounds and hope to rebuild quickly under his new promoter Oscar De La Hoya.
