Sports
2024.12.29 14:05 GMT+8

China's Yang claims WBO inter-continental lightweight title in Haikou

Updated 2024.12.29 14:05 GMT+8
Sports Scene

A highly-anticipated professional boxing event was held in Haikou, the capital of south China's Hainan Province, on Saturday night, with local hero Yang Yongqiang emerging victorious against Kazakh fighter Ablaykhan Khusainov. The impressive win secured the WBO inter-continental lightweight title for Yang, much to the delight of the home crowd.

Yang entered the ring with an unblemished record of 16 wins from 16 fights, including 12 knockouts, while Khusainov came in at 13-1. The bout began cautiously, but Yang quickly established his dominance with swift jabs and agile footwork, effectively controlling the distance and landing significant blows. As the contest progressed, Khusainov tried to corner Yang with aggressive combinations, but his attempts were largely ineffective.

From the eighth round onward, the intensity escalated, with both fighters exchanging powerful punches. Yang maintained control, however, countering Khusainov's attacks with a relentless offensive strategy. After 12 rounds, the bout went to the judges scorecards, where Yang earned a unanimous decision and the WBO inter-continental lightweight title.

"I hope Chinese boxing can develop in all areas," said Yang. "I also hope our current fighters, like Zhang Zhilei and Xu Can, can achieve great results on the international stage as soon as possible. We have a heavy task ahead, so I will reflect on my shortcomings and work on improving."

In a bout for the WBO oriental flyweight title, China's Lyu Bin fell short at the hands of undefeated Filipino pugilist Vencent Lacar. Lyu was at a disadvantage against Lacar's height, reach advantage, and impressive speed. The crowd favorite tried to look for openings in the early rounds, but struggled to get past his opponent's defenses.

Lyu adapted by closing the distance and lowering his center of gravity, delivering powerful rights and effective combinations. But Lacar responded with sharp counters, keeping the pressure on Lyu. After 10 intense rounds, the judges rendered a split decision for an emotional Lacar, who claimed the title.

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