Wilder secures unanimous decision win over Stiverne…
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Deontay Wilder defeated Bermane Stiverne in a unanimous decision win at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Saturday night to become the WBC world heavyweight champion.
Wilder had never been beyond four rounds in a fight prior to Saturday, but he answered several questions that had been asked of him after a string of devastating early knockouts.
The 29-year-old showcased his boxing skills, his stamina and his power at various stages of the fight but ultimately it was a comfortable win as he now takes the WBC belt home.
Wilder bossed the first three rounds behind his jab before the champion showed signs of life, however, the challenger went on to win the majority of the rounds and landed some heavy right hands which shook Stiverne.
To the 36-year-old’s credit, while he was rocked at times, he was able to take Wilder’s power shots and stand up while he also hit his opponent with a left hook mid-way through the bout which showed Wilder could take a punch too.
The judges scorecards gave it 120-107, 119-108 and 118-109 in Wilder’s favour and the American was thrilled to fulfil his dream and become the first American heavyweight champion in over nine years.
“I’m going to bring excitement back to the heavyweight division,” Wilder said. “I’m not going to sit around. Whoever is ready, I’m ready.”
Stiverne conceded after the fight that he wasn’t at his best and he wasn’t able to cut off the ring as Wilder used his reach advantage to keep him at distance before hitting him with the jab and straight rights.
Wilder will now look forward to defending his belt this year with Tyson Fury mentioned while a unification bout Wladimir Klitschko could be a huge clash at the end of 2015 if he successfully defends his belt.
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