THE RESULT: Abass Baraou makes a profitable first defence of his European super-welterweight title in opposition to a spirited effort from Macauley McGowan. After 12 rounds, Baraou was awarded a unanimous resolution verdict (117-111, 119-110, 118-110).
KEY MOMENTS: The physique photographs from Baraou have been a relentless thorn within the aspect of McGowan. Baraou’s high quality shone by way of and needed to as a result of his challenger was relentless in his pursuit of the European title. Within the sixth spherical, McGowan was starting to take a beating, however his health ranges and coronary heart have been phenomenal. Within the eighth, the Englishman fought again once more and landed left hooks of his personal. Baraou’s footwork obtained him out of hassle as a rule, although, and in direction of the top, his accuracy may have led to the battle being stopped.
RECORDS: The champion heads again to Germany with a 16-1 (9 KOs) document whereas the overwhelmed challenger now sits at 20-5-2 (5 KOs).
TALKING POINTS: The unimaginable resilience proven by McGowan. Written off by virtually everybody the battle regarded probably over by the midway stage as a result of the champion’s physique photographs appeared to be draining the battle out of McGowan however how unsuitable we have been and he deserves monumental respect to have hung in there for the 12 rounds.
QUOTABLE: “I’m pleased immediately I defended my title and I’m centered on the longer term,” Baraou stated afterwards.
Discussing McGowan’s effort he stated, “We’ve got to point out the individuals there’s good reveals to see and I used to be excited to make the battle attention-grabbing. He was a very good opponent and far respect to him.”
And waiting for the longer term the WBA 154lbs world title contender commented, “I wanna head in direction of world titles. After all, I wanna keep as lively as doable and I see what the administration have to supply. I’m prepared for something.”
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: If Baraou can’t land a world-class opponent in his subsequent battle then Spaniard Oscar Diaz may very well be the following European title defence for the German. McGowan will proceed to battle on and be a fan favorite and hopefully earn himself some wins and good paydays alongside the best way.
