Kid Galahad’s short reign ends with a knockout defeat by veteran Kiko Martinez
Galahad had won the vacant crown over fellow Briton Jazza Dickens in August.
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.Kid Galahad’s short reign as IBF featherweight champion was brought to a painful end by veteran Kiko Martinez in Sheffield.
Galahad was slammed to the canvas by a big right hand at the start of the sixth round as the Spaniard claimed the title at the age of 35.
Galahad had won the vacant crown over fellow Briton Jazza Dickens in August and started as hot favourite against a fighter whose best days were assumed to be behind him.
Martinez fought two thrilling battles with Carl Frampton in 2013 and 2014 then was narrowly out-pointed by Josh Warrington in Leeds in 2017.
But a points loss to inexperienced Zelfa Barrett in February had appeared to spell the end of Martinez’s hopes of wresting back a version of the world crown.
The technically-gifted Galahad looked set for an expected emphatic points win as he cleverly picked apart his opponent through the opening rounds.
But Martinez seized his chance to swing the fight in his favour when he floored Galahad out of the blue with a right hand at the end of round five.
Galahad’s corner desperately tried to rouse him in between rounds but at the bell Martinez stalked across the ring and delivered another hammering right which immediately ended the contest.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments