Early on Sunday morning (Nigerian time), Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder were set to headline the Day of Reckoning card. Former two-time world heavyweight champion Joshua faced Otto Wallin in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, while former WBC title holder Wilder met another former heavyweight champion, Joseph Parker.
Joshua vs Wallin
Anthony Joshua impressively broke down his opponent Otto Wallin for a fifth-round stoppage, asserting a remarkable win against a tricky opponent.
Joshua displayed his aggressive prowess in the opening two rounds, delivering right hands with precision. He lived up to the expectations of new trainer Ben Davison with his powerful counters and overwhelmed Wallin with right-hand and left-hook combinations.
Wallin was gradually weighed down by Joshua’s power shots, dominating from the start and alternating between head and body punches.
In the fifth round, Wallin was hit by a combination from Joshua and staggered across the ring, prompting the referee to end the fight. This marked a pivotal moment for Joshua in the heavyweight Super League, proving his doubters wrong and cementing his place as a significant figure in Saudi Arabia.
Under Davison’s guidance, Joshua’s minor adjustments made a substantial difference in his performance.
Wilder vs Parker
Deontay Wilder, at 38, lacked his usual menace against Joseph Parker, who implemented a calculated game plan to neutralize the American puncher.
Parker consistently outmaneuvered Wilder, shockingly dominating rounds and nearly ending the bout in the eighth round. Despite Wilder’s efforts to recover in the ninth round, he failed to find an equalizer, resulting in a landslide victory for Parker on the judges’ cards.
Parker won by a wide margin of 118-111, 118-110, and 120-108.
Bivol vs Arthur
Dmitry Bivol (Right) dominated challenger Lyndon ArthurThe WBA light-heavyweight world title contest between Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur and champion Dmitry Bivol showcased supreme skills from both fighters.
Bivol’s efficiency in punching and footwork outclassed Arthur round after round, leading to a wide points decision victory for the champion, who retained his 175lb world title for the 11th time.
Arthur displayed his skills on the big stage, but Bivol’s dominance was evident, securing a comprehensive 120-107 victory on all three judges’ cards.
Dubois vs Miller
Daniel Dubois secured a dramatic 10th-round stoppage victory against Jarrell Miller in a heavyweight boxing showcase.
Showing great heart and resilience, Dubois emerged victorious, making a strong statement and signaling his readiness for future significant fights.