In Montreal, Canada, Lucian Bute stopped over-matched opponent Andrea Di Luisa in the 4th round. After almost two years outside the ring, Bute became very emotional, which is understandable given his notable defeats to Jean Pascal (UD 12, 2014) and Carl Froch (TKO 5, 2012).
Bute is back, sure, but it’s hard to get too excited – if at all. This was a showcase bout Bute (32-2, 25 KO) was in control of from the onset. Not only was Bute physically stronger, rangier, and bigger, his ability level far outweighed that of his opponent’s.
But there’s little point in over-analyzing or being too critical. Di Luisa (17-3-0, 13 KO) was a handpicked opponent, and Bute was supposed to outclass and stop this guy. Bute did that, and so what else is there to really say? Whether Bute will be able to compete with Top 10 Light Heavyweights like Adonis Stevenson, Sergey Kovalev, or even rising stars like Eieider Alvarez, we are yet to find out.
Bute vs Luisa: Round by Round
Round 1: Bute is clearly the bigger, rangier fighter as the action commences. Bute looking good, throwing out a long jab. Nothing noteworthy landed here, but cobwebs will have been shaken for Bute.
Round 2: Di Luisa hasn’t made any dents as of yet, but is defensively sound. Right-hook from Bute. One-two from Bute. Bute, 10-9 (20-18)
Round 3: A lot of lateral movement from Bute. Luisa starting to close down distance and find target, but Bute is landing the more leather. One-two textbook punches from Bute. Left-hook. Left-straight. Big round for Bute. Bute, 10-9 (30-27)
Round 4: Bute timing his shots well, figuring out his over-matched opponent. Di Luisa tags Bute with a left-hook. Bute knocks down Di Luisa with left-hook. Di Luisa beats the count but is overwhelmed by Bute. Towel flies into the ring and this fight is over.
Result: Bute wins via 4th round TKO
Give us your take on Bute vs Di Luisa in the comments, Alvarez vs Prieto, and the rest of the PBC card.
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