Up in Liverpool last night, at the Echo Arena, Derry Matthews put on a fine display of Boxing to win the WBA interim lightweight title against Tony Luis.
Twice Matthews had gotten set to take on the Cuban champion Richar Abril and twice the Cuban had pulled out, with the WBA consequently stripping the champion of his title.
Last night, against the late replacement, Matthews showed grit and determination to take the points verdict on all three score-cards by:
? 114-112
? 114-112
? 115-112
Matthews got off to a good start against his opponent using his long reach to keep his opponent at bay, but Luis had his dangerous moments particularly with an uppercut thrown in the sixth round.
Both fighters were deducted a point in the 8th round, Matthews for a low blow and Luis for use of the head. In the later rounds Matthews was thankful for the early lead he?d accumulated with Luis coming on the stronger, but held on to take the verdict.
Our congratulations go to Derry on taking the WBA interim lightweight and we wait to see what the next step will be for the Liverpudlian in a career that continues to surprise many.
Matthews Claims WBA Interim Lightweight Title
