In a night that showcased raw talent and brutal knockout power, Hamzah Sheeraz etched his name into the limelight with a commanding performance against Edgar Berlanga. From the outset, Sheeraz appeared to struggle with Berlanga’s aggressive style, but he demonstrated resilience and strategic patience. The pivotal moment of the fight came in the fourth round when Sheeraz unleashed a blistering four-punch combination. This burst of speed and accuracy caught Berlanga off-guard, forcing him face-first onto the canvas. Despite Berlanga’s attempt to rise, the effects of the assault were evident — his legs betrayed him, and he looked visibly shaken.
Sheeraz seized the moment, relentlessly pressing his advantage. The subsequent knockdown in the same round underscored his superior power and ring awareness. Although Berlanga managed to get to his feet, he was clearly compromised, bleeding from the nose and displaying unsteady footing. Sheeraz capitalized quickly in the fifth round, finishing Berlanga off with a sharp left-right combination that led to the referee’s intervention just 17 seconds into the round.
This victory isn’t just a stepping stone; it’s a statement. Sheeraz’s willingness to challenge higher-ranked opponents and his aggressive knockout style suggest a fighter who is ready to fight elite opponents. His comments about potentially facing Canelo Alvarez in the future indicate his ambitions are not superficial—he believes he belongs among the sport’s best and is eager for high-profile bouts. Critics might argue his early struggles in this fight reveal vulnerabilities, but the decisive nature of his victory proves he has the skills and mental toughness to rise quickly through the ranks.
Questionable Judging and the Battle for Fairness in Boxing
While Sheeraz’s performance stole the show, the evening was marred by controversy surrounding the judging of the co-main event. Shakur Stevenson, the reigning WBC lightweight champion, defended his title through a lopsided unanimous decision victory over William Zepeda. The judges’ scores—118-110, 118-110, and 119-109—fail to capture the reality of the fight, where Zepeda outworked Stevenson consistently. It is hard to ignore the bias that may have influenced the decision; the judges seemingly favored the hometown favorite, a recurring theme in boxing that damages the sport’s credibility.
Many seasoned observers found themselves disputing the scorecards, asserting that Zepeda’s aggression and cleaner punches deserved recognition. Stevenson, often painted as the fighter with the superior skills and speed, appeared passive and hesitant at times, surrendering the ring’s momentum to Zepeda. The unfairness of such decisions hampers the integrity of championships and leaves fans questioning the legitimacy of outcomes. The sport’s judging process needs a serious overhaul if it is to be taken seriously as a competitive pursuit rather than political theater.
This controversy also brings to light the importance of transparency and consistency in officiating. When fights are decided by narrow margins or questionable judging, it erodes trust not just in individual bouts but in the sport as a whole. Boxing, a sport rooted in honor and grit, cannot thrive under the shadow of unfair judging that diminishes the fighters’ efforts and talents. Zepeda’s performance, despite the outcome, remains an indelible highlight—one that deserved better acknowledgment from the scorecards.
The Underestimated and Overwhelmed: Other Notable Performances
Beyond the headline results, the undercard was packed with compelling storylines and fights that showcased the depth and diversity of talent in the boxing world. Subriel Matias, known for his relentless pressure, secured a dramatic majority decision over Alberto Puello, a fight characterized by aggressive tactics and tactical holding that divided opinion among fans and judges alike. The crowd’s boos echoed their displeasure with Puello’s excessive clinching, highlighting how deliberate tactics can influence both perception and scoring. Matias’s win solidifies his reputation as a formidable contender looking for bigger challenges, especially with news of his upcoming title defense in Riyadh.
Meanwhile, light heavyweight contender David Morrell experienced a test of resilience. After being knocked down in the fifth round, Morrell refused to fold. Instead, he climbed back into the fight, rallying in the late rounds to secure victory by split decision. His ability to withstand adversity and turn the fight around speaks volumes about his grit and potential for future greatness. Morrell’s comeback suggests that he has the necessary mental toughness to handle pressure situations—an essential trait for anyone aiming at the pinnacle of the sport.
Adding to the intrigue, featherweight prospect Reito Tsutsumi made a significant statement with a swift second-round TKO over Michael Ruiz. Tsutsumi’s calculated attack on the body and sharp head shots showcased his technical prowess and finishing ability. At just 22 years old, Tsutsumi appears to be a star in the making, with the potential to ascend rapidly in the super featherweight division.
This night of boxing was not just about the results; it was a demonstration of the sport’s unpredictability, resilience, and the importance of developing true talent. From heavyweight knockouts to undercard surprises, the event reaffirmed boxing’s status as a sport that demands both skill and heart. As these fighters climb the ranks and face new challenges, fans and critics alike will be watching eagerly—hoping that integrity and fairness remain at the sport’s core.