23:37:19
IT’S ALL OVER
According to Eddie Hearn, Zelfa Barrett’s success is only the start of his journey, but unfortunately, it concludes this blog. The Manchester man achieved a remarkable stoppage victory, while Ellie Scotney and Rhiannon Dixon secured world titles on an eventful evening at the Manchester Arena. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to seeing you in the future.
23:35:44
THE KINGS’ SPEECH
After achieving a remarkable victory, Zelfa Barrett expressed, “This win was absolutely crucial. It was a make-or-break situation. If I had been defeated, I would have been left wondering what my next move would be. Gill really challenged me, he’s not an easy opponent.”
“It required immense effort on my part. I did not underestimate him and diligently searched for it. I managed to catch him early on, and although I relaxed, it proved to be an erroneous decision. However, we will take this as a valuable lesson and grow from it.”
“We focused our efforts on refining the technique for that particular shot using the body pad.”
Jordan Gill, known for his graciousness in defeat, expressed his admiration for Zelfa by saying, “I want to congratulate Zelfa for being an incredible fighter. Tonight, he showed me that he truly belongs in the world-class category. I sincerely hope he achieves his goal of winning the world title.”
“I had the impression that I was being forceful, yet the harder I tried, the more vulnerable I became to those body shots.”
23:27:28
IT’S ALL OVER!
Gill demonstrates resilience after the first knockdown, but just before the 10th round comes to an end, he is struck by another body shot and falls for the second time. Despite getting up once more, Barrett relentlessly pursues Gill, prompting referee John Latham to intervene and halt the match with Gill still on his feet. The defeated fighter does not vehemently object to the decision to stop the fight.
The stoppage is officially timed at 2:44 of the 10th round.
23:26:24
DOWN GOES GILL!
Gill gets knocked down by a body shot just one minute into the 10th round. Will Barrett be able to defeat him?
23:24:01
NINE DOWN
Gill had a great round, successfully landing several jabs from low to high that consistently broke through Barrett’s guard. With three rounds left, the outcome of the fight is still up for grabs.
23:17:11
EYE DAMAGE
As we enter the eighth round, it is evident that Gill’s trainer Ben Davison is pleased with his boxer’s performance in the ring. However, they are putting in significant effort to address a notable swelling under Gill’s left eye. On the other hand, Barrett remains untouched by any visible marks or injuries thus far.
23:11:54
HALFWAY HOME
With six rounds completed and six remaining, Gill takes the lead as he confidently advances, aiming for precise shots. Meanwhile, Barrett comfortably maintains a defensive stance, strategically waiting for the right moment to counter his opponent’s advances. The competition remains highly unpredictable, leaving everything open to seize in the upcoming rounds.
23:04:11
BIG FOURTH FOR BARRETT
During the fourth round, the Manchester man impressively advances his position. The flood gates appear to open with a powerful right uppercut, followed swiftly by Barrett delivering precise hooks to the body using both hands. It seems he is determined to secure an early victory, yet Gill remains resilient and refuses to back down.
23:01:50
JAB IS KEY
In this scenario, Barrett focuses on firmly planting his feet as he forcefully strikes his opponent’s body. On the other hand, Gill consistently aims to lower his position and launch an upward jab through the defense, followed by a powerful strike with either his back hand to the head or body.
23:00:01
SOUTHPAW GILL
Although he may have sustained an injury in the third round, Gill remains resilient and shows no signs of weakness. He even concludes the round in southpaw stance, delivering a powerful lead hook to the body followed by a straight backhand. The fight has been exciting thus far.
22:58:37
BIG RIGHT HAND FROM BARRETT
In the midst of the third round, there is a significant moment in the fight when Barrett connects with a powerful right hand that appears to have an impact on Gill. However, despite being hurt, Gill remains resilient and refuses to let Barrett capitalize on the situation.
22:52:06
EVEN FIRST
There isn’t a significant difference between the two men in the initial round, which is both evenly matched and entertaining. Barrett, being the more experienced super-featherweight, appears significantly larger in the ring. It’s clear that this is going to be an enjoyable bout.
22:42:45
MAIN EVENT TIME
Jordan Gill makes his entrance, greeted with boos as he walks into the hometown of his opponent, Zelfa Barrett. Despite his impressive win against Mick Conlan last December, Gill is considered the underdog according to bookmakers. Barrett follows closely behind. This is set to be an intense battle, lasting 12 rounds in the super-featherweight division.
22:31:30
CLARKE WINS
After a fierce battle, Clarke emerges as the victor with a score of 40-35 according to referee Mark Lyson’s judgment, propelling him to a perfect 2-0 record in his professional career. And now, it’s time for the highly anticipated main event.
22:22:17
IRVING DOWN
In the second round, Irving is knocked down by a powerful right uppercut that lands on his eye, causing him to drop to one knee. As the break between rounds begins, his corner asks if he wishes to carry on, to which he responds, “I’m fine at the moment.” With two rounds remaining, the fight resumes.
22:15:50
FLOAT
Prior to the main event, there will be a middleweight four-round float featuring the undefeated Liverpool prospect Ste Clarke and Swindon legend Jensen Irving.
22:03:17
I WANT UNDISPUTED
Upon her triumph, Ellie Scotney, the recently crowned unified champion, expressed her gratitude by stating, “I feel incredibly fortunate. Although there were aspects we didn’t display, we are gradually improving. The future holds much more in store.”
“I am determined to become undisputed, fully prepared and eagerly waiting for the opportunity.”
21:59:17
SCOTNEY UD
99-91
97-93
96-94
Ellie Scotney has earned unanimous support as the newly crowned unified IBF and WBO super-bantamweight champion of the world. The job is successfully accomplished, showcasing an exceptional performance.
21:57:21
IT’S OVER…
Ellie Scotney has successfully completed all 10 rounds, solidifying her position as the unified champion. The Catford ace delivered an outstanding performance, indicating a highly probable victory.
21:52:21
PENULTIMATE ROUND
Scotney appears to be on the verge of claiming the WBO title to add to her existing IBF one. She has been consistently landing powerful left hooks to the head, suggesting that tonight might be the night she secures her first professional stoppage, with only a few minutes remaining.
21:44:46
NO RESPECT
In the sixth round, Lefebvre’s throwing punches with a slightly increased intensity. However, Scotney remains unfazed by her opponent’s power, fearlessly advancing to land strikes on both the body and head. This relentless display of dominance is greatly disheartening for the French contender.
21:41:45
HALFWAY MARK
Scotney is truly tightening the grip in the fifth round, delivering a three-punch combination towards the end of the round. At this point, we are halfway through the fight, and one could make a case that the girl from Catford is leading 5-0.
21:35:48
HIT WOMAN?
Legendary Manchester trainer Billy Graham walked Ellie Scotney into the ring, with DAZN commentator Andy Lee comparing her fighting style to Ricky Hatton. Lee noted her effective use of hooks, aiming to rip Lefebvre under the elbows. Additionally, it was hard to miss that she proudly wore the sky blue colors of Manchester City.
The Catford ace has made an excellent start.
21:33:13
MORE SCOTNEY PRESSURE
Scotney continues to excel in the ring, outperforming her opponents in the jabs despite facing challenges with her height and reach. With two rounds completed, she still has eight more to conquer.
21:29:17
WATER IN THE BASEMENT
Ellie Scotney demonstrates a strong and strategic beginning, as she effectively focuses on attacking the body of her opponent who possesses a taller and more rangy stature. Throughout the round, Scotney maintains an aggressive stance, applying intelligent pressure and preventing her opponent, Lefebvre, from initiating any successful attacks.
21:23:45
SUPERSONIC SCOTNEY
Ellie Scotney, hailing from Manchester, made her ring walk this week to the iconic debut single “Supersonic” by Oasis, which celebrated its 30th anniversary.
In this unification clash, the current IBF super-bantamweight champion faces off against Segolene Lefebvre from France, who holds the WBO championship. Adding to the excitement, Lefebvre shows her support by entering the ring wearing a Manchester United jersey with CANTONA printed on the back.
Here we go…
21:08:19
SORRY MUM
Rhiannon Dixon, the recently crowned WBO lightweight champion, shares her thoughts as she joins the exclusive ranks of women who have defeated Karen Carabajal, following in the footsteps of Katie Taylor.
She exclaims, “Words fail me, I’m utterly astonished.”
“Didn’t I make a mess of it? My mom is in tears! I’m sorry, mom.”
“I spend all my time searching for dominant shots, mistakenly believing I possess strength when in reality, that is not the case.”
21:05:09
AND THE NEW…
Gray 98-91
Molenda 97-92
Milford 96-93
Rhiannon Dixon by unanimous decision!
According to the judges’ perspective, the close appearance of the match was deceiving. Rhiannon Dixon has emerged as the new WBO lightweight champion.
21:02:58
WE GO TO THE SCORECARDS…
This match is potentially very close. As is typical in a 10-twos bout, there were several rounds that were incredibly tight. However, Dixon did manage to score a knockdown at some point. Now, let’s find out the judges’ verdict.
20:59:47
INTO THE LAST WE GO
Dixon delivers a solid ninth round, maintaining a high punch volume while effectively combining her attacks to target both the head and body. Her performance suggests that if she manages to secure victory in the upcoming 10th and final round, she will become the world champion. Let’s see what unfolds next…
20:55:03
‘SHE’S TIRED TOO!’
Before the beginning of the eighth round, Anthony Crolla, Dixon’s coach and a revered figure in the area, provides his fighter with guidance. He asserts that Carabajal is also feeling the intensity of the fight. Nonetheless, the Argentinean, who possesses greater experience at this stage, appears to have ample energy remaining.
20:50:32
CARABAJAL RESPONDS
The Argentinean is having an exceptional round, consistently landing a phenomenal jab and is also starting to find success with the backhand. Dixon was initially flying after the knockdown, but is she now being pushed back?
20:47:40
WHAT’S UP DOC?
Referee Howard Foster summons the ringside doctor to examine the inflicted damage on Carabajal’s right eye caused by the collision of heads. Nevertheless, the doctor appears satisfied with the condition, allowing the match to proceed. In the event that the fight is halted due to the cut, the scorecards would be consulted to determine the outcome.
20:44:08
FOUR DOWN
Carabajal, displaying resilience, refuses to back down following her knockdown in the third round. With determination, she confidently occupies the center of the ring, diligently pursuing her opponent while Dixon opts to move along the perimeter in search of opportunities to land powerful straight shots.
20:39:57
DOWN GOES CARABAJAL!
Dixon delivers an impressive backhand, skillfully feinting with a jab before evading Carabajal’s punch and landing a powerful blow. The opponent is sent flying but manages to rise before the count.
Both women, having clashed heads, end the round with bleeding. Truly, this has been an eventful encounter.
20:35:14
ONE DOWN
The beginning of this bout is quite promising as Dixon kicks off with a strong performance, executing a precise one-two combination against her orthodox opponent. However, Carabajal also manages to showcase her skills and has her own moments of success. The intensity of the fight is gradually building up.
20:28:51
WORLD TITLE ACTION
The opening world title fight of the evening features Rhiannon Dixon, a left-handed boxer from Warrington, facing off against Karen Elizabeth Carabajal from Argentina for the vacant WBO lightweight championship. This highly anticipated bout is scheduled for 10 rounds. Dixon boasts an impressive record of 9 wins and 1 loss, with 1 knockout. On the other hand, Carabajal brings a wealth of experience with a record of 22 wins, 1 loss, and 3 knockouts.
20:17:34
SPEAKING OF VUONG…
As Flynn proceeds with his post-fight interview, Cameron Vuong is brought into the ring.
“I really hope he performs better than that in our upcoming boxing match,” the injured man comments. “I mean, he fought against a mediocre boxer and just look at the condition of his face!”
Flynn forcefully shoves him in the chest, causing them to be forcefully separated. It’s going to be quite entertaining when that moment finally arrives.
20:14:50
WE GO TO THE SCORECARD…
The final score is 59-54, with Steve Gray favoring the Oxford man.
Flynn had a satisfactory performance in his third fight after almost 18 months, despite facing a last-minute replacement opponent. With that accomplished, he can now shift his focus towards his upcoming rescheduled bout against Cameron Vuong.
20:09:45
SECONDS OUT…
In the sixth and last round of this significant event, Flynn finds himself facing unexpected challenges against the relatively unknown Tanzanian opponent. Despite not having an easy time, Flynn remains focused and determined.
19:58:48
HOLD ME TONIGHT
In the third round, Maharusi’s swings become increasingly erratic, leading Steve Gray to deduct a point for excessive holding. Flynn must maintain control and avoid any mistakes to secure a favorable outcome. He currently holds a comfortable lead.
19:54:04
UNKNOWN QUANTITY
Flynn was initially set to battle Cameron Vuong at this location, but unfortunately, Vuong had to withdraw due to an injury. As a result, Maharusi steps in as the most recent replacement, coming off a points loss to Colm Murphy in Galway just last month.
As the second round progresses, Flynn is gradually understanding his opponent better, opting for straightforward punches to keep things uncomplicated.
19:47:32
WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME
Welcome, friends, to this evening’s live blog of the highly anticipated clash between Jordan Gill and Zelfa Barrett at the prestigious Manchester Arena. Stay tuned as we provide you with every cough and splutter from this iconic event, presented by Matchroom.
The non-televised portion of the undercard has already concluded, and in our first televised fight of the night, Michael Gomez Jr just achieved a stoppage victory over KANE BAKER.
Jordan Flynn and Tampela Maharusi are now facing off in the ring, competing in a lightweight match that will consist of six rounds.
At the Manchester Arena, Jordan Gill is set to take on Zelfa Barrett in a pivotal super-featherweight bout that could define their careers, with the WBA International Super-Featherweight Title on the line.
The undercard action kicks off on the Matchroom Boxing YouTube channel at 5pm UK time, noon Eastern Time, and 10am Pacific Time.
Gill vs Barrett Weights and Running Order
6 x 3 mins International Bantamweight contest
BRANDON SCOTT (125 lbs) vs RODRIGO MATIAS ARECO (125.8 lbs)
6 x 3 mins International Super-Welterweight contest
WILLIAM CROLLA (154.1 lbs) vs FABIO CASCONE (152.9 lbs)
6 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
JIMMY SAINS (162.3 lbs) vs MATEUSZ KALECKI (161.6 lbs)
6 x 3 mins International Super-Flyweight contest
JACK TURNER (117.6 lbs) vs ABDUL KESI NGAOMA (116.1 lbs)
19:00 LIVE ON DAZN
10 x 3 mins English Super-Featherweight Title
MICHAEL GOMEZ JR (129.1 lbs) vs KANE BAKER (129.4 lbs)
6 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
JORDAN FLYNN (134.3 lbs) v TAMPELA MAHARUSI (134.5 lbs)
10 x 2 mins vacant WBO Lightweight World Title
RHIANNON DIXON (134.5 lbs) vs KAREN ELIZABETH CARABAJAL (134.5 lbs)
4 x 3 mins Middleweight contest (LIVE FLOAT)
STE CLARKE (161.5 lbs) vs JENSEN IRVING (163.1 lbs)
10 x 2 mins IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Super-Bantamweight World Titles
ELLIE SCOTNEY (121.8 lbs) vs SEGOLENE LEFEBVRE (119.3 lbs)
12 x 3 mins WBA International Super-Featherweight Title
JORDAN GILL (129.5 lbs) vs ZELFA BARRETT (129.6 lbs)
