Conor Benn vs Chris Algieri LIVE: Result and latest updates and reaction
Follow all the fallout from an evening of fights at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena
Conor Benn secured a statement knockout win over Chris Algieri on Saturday night, finishing the American late in the fourth round to retain his WBA Continental welterweight title.
The victory in Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena also saw 25-year-old Benn, son of boxing icon Nigel, extend his unbeaten run to 20-0 (13 KOs). Algieri, a former WBO junior welterweight champion, returned to the ring in August after two years out, and the 37-year-old looked somewhat tentative on Saturday night despite staying light on his feet throughout. Although the American raced to the centre of the ring at the start of the main event, which followed Katie Taylor’s points win against Firuza Sharipova, he was soon backed up by Benn.
The Briton quickly established what would be his predominant tactic, firing off hooks to the body. In the end, however, it would be a one-two to the jaw that sent Algieri lolloping to the canvas with two seconds left in the fourth round. “I silenced all the doubters,” Benn said after the fight. “‘The next fight is going to be a test?’ They’re not tests. Nobody has done that to Algieri. What more do I have to do? I’m a top, world-level athlete. I didn’t expect nothing else. 2022, listen, [Amir] Khan or [Kell] Brook. Business is business, I’ll have the winner. We’ll fight [Adrien] Broner in America. If he don’t want it, I fancy [Yordenis] Ugas.”
Re-live updates from Benn vs Algieri and the entire undercard, below.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Final round then, can Cordina force a stoppage?
A first time in the 10th round for Khatchatryan, whose tank is still reasonably full it seems.
Both men trading, engrossing stuff! Cordina thinks he’s done enough and celebrates but that was quality from both men.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Sims complaining to Cordina in the corner between rounds.
It prompts a big response, stalking his performance, but he must let those hands go.
It’s hard though, with Khatchatryan’s movement not providing a stationary target and the power not enough to slow him through nine.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan still putting together combinations, then shuffling out of range.
He has a really nice, slick style. Cordina unable to get on top of him all night as the eighth near an end.
Khatchatryan’s corner are loud too, perhaps sensing their man has a chance here. A lot of his shots are on the gloves, but he deserves some credit, it’s been a good display.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan moving so well this fight, but that’s a sickening body shot.
He can’t mask the pain in the seventh.
Cordina not pouncing though. And the Belgian bounces a couple of good shots off the Welshman, who then gets a warning for holding down Khatchatryan’s head.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan smiles after landing an overhand right, it briefly stuns the Welshman, it’s a gorgeous shot.
Cordina peppering his body, lovely work. This is a competitive fight though through six rounds.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Imposing from Cordina now, pushing him back with the jab and then waiting for the response.
Almost luring Khatchatryan in and then countering well.
The Belgian’s gas tank is impressive though, he’s asking for more engagement from Cordina.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Cordina dishing out the punishment now, backing up Khatchatryan.
Cordina soaks up a couple 1-2 combinations from the Belgian, showing he has a solid shell too.
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