Boxing: Burns beats Laryea hands down to retain title
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ricky Burns underscored his growing reputation to be ranked among Scotland's finest fighting men with a second successful defence of his WBO world super-featherweight title at the Braehead Arena in his home town Glasgow last night.
Yet while it was one of his most emphatic victories, the manner of it was not the most satisfying, with Ghanaian challenger Joseph Laryea quitting on his stool Sonny Liston-like at the end of the seventh round blaming a damaged right hand.
But Burns's punches were quicker and more spiteful, disheartening the tall, gangling Laryea. "I was really enjoying myself in there", said Burns. "I knew he was going to be difficult and awkward but things keep getting better for me."
The 27-year-old is the least visible and voluble of Britain's quartet of world champions. But this impressive win over a useful, battle-hardened opponent lifts him from the shadows towards genuine stardom, as well as the possibility of a unification fight.
James DeGale stopped journeyman Alpay Kobal on his feet after he bludgeoned the Frenchman for five rounds. The new British super-middleweight champion coasted to victory against the 34-year-old for his 10th successive victory.
The fight was intended to keep his gears clicking over for a scheduled big-money fight with the former amateur foe he sniffily calls "that ugly ginger kid", George Groves, the Commonwealth champion who narrowly beat him when they both wore ABA vests.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments