Philadelphia (United States) (AFP)
Dominican Jeison Rosario grabbed WBA and IBF welterweight belts by dethroning American Julian Williams by referee's stop in the 5th round on Saturday in Philadelphia.
Rosario first sent his opponent, however favorite, to the mat after a big straight chain with a burst of blows. Williams got up all the same, before taking a right uppercut and a left hook which forced the referee to end the fight in the middle of the 5th round.
"I can't help crying, I'm so moved right now," said the 24-year-old winner in tears, whose record now stands at 20 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw.
The Dominican remains on eight victories since his only loss conceded in 2017. "When I lost this fight, I vowed not to lose one again until I become world champion," he said. , answered.
For Williams, 29, this fight was his first title defense, after taking it in May 2019 to the detriment of his, American compatriot Jarrett Hurd. He now has two losses for 27 wins (1 draw).
Open just above the left eyelid in the second round after a jab of Rosario, it never took over.
"This cut disturbed my vision a little. But that's not why I lost. He was a better boxer tonight," he said after his loss.
© 2020 AFP