At the Barclays Center, Brooklyn, Deontay Wilder kept his dangerous reputation intact, scoring a savage one-punch knockout over Artur Szpilka in the 9th. The end was spine-tingling, with Szpilka being stretchered out of the ring in a head brace, but for 8 rounds it seemed like the WBC Heavyweight crown could have been about to change hands. Why? Because Szpilka was on his game. In fact, here at Boxing Base we had the action 78-74, Szpilka.
The Polish outsider gave Wilder all kinds of problems tonight, utilizing great mobility and head movement to take away the champion’s jab and signature pressure. While Szpilka seemed to settle in quickly, Wilder couldn’t quite do the same, becoming frustrated by a mobile, surprisingly intelligent opponent. Yes, I think we can all agree on one thing: we should all stop writing off these supposed ‘soft touch Wilder challengers’ for good.
Szpilka may have lasted two rounds less than Wilder victim, Johann Duhaupas, but enjoyed significantly more success. Szpilka was defiant, supremely confident, and held no respect for Wilder whatsoever; and when combined can seriously raise a fighter’s game. Szpilka was quick on his feet, darting in and out of range to score shots, and at times made Wilder look kind of clumsy and (no pun intended) wild.
But that’s enough about Szpilka. It was Wilder who remained patient and eventually managed to find that devastating right-hand counter in the 9th round. Champions find a way to win, and though Wilder still has flaws to iron out, the man got the job done and in the most conclusive fashion possible.
Oh, and I guess I better mention that ol’ Tyson Fury was in the building, and even in the ring to taunt tonight’s victor. The ‘Gypsy Warrior’ quickly turned on the theatrics, getting in Wilder’s face during the post-fight interview, and yes – you guessed it – commenced with some Fury vs Wilder marketing. It’s never too early, I guess.
Deontay Wilder now builds to 36 wins, no defeats, 35 knockouts, while Artur Szpilka falls to 20 wins, 2 defeats, 15 knockouts. Give us your take on Wilder vs Szpilka in the comments, plus the rest of the Brooklyn card.
