Jonathan Bead
Lawrence Okolie Claims Dominant Victory over David Light in WBO Cruiserweight World Title Defense
Lawrence Okolie, the WBO cruiserweight world champion, made a triumphant return to the ring after over a year by defeating David Light, his mandatory challenger, in a 12-round unanimous decision victory. Although Light was gritty and withstood Okolie’s punishing power punches, Okolie was able to manhandle him throughout the fight, hurting him in the late rounds but never dropping him.
The much taller Okolie, with new trainer SugarHill Steward in his corner, was eager to serve a warning to his domestic rivals, the other champions in his division, and even to his own potential move up to heavyweight. However, Light, who prepared specifically for his chance to topple the Londoner and become a world champion, had earned his opportunity and had long targeted Okolie and his belt.
Throughout the fight, Okolie’s dimensions and long arms gave him an advantage over Light. Although Light tried to burrow forward and get up close to Okolie on the inside, Okolie’s right hook and jab to the body kept Light at bay. Okolie’s explosive right hook hit Light flush, showcasing the power behind his punches.
Throughout the fight, Light tried to reply and pushed himself forward, but Okolie’s size and weight advantage were evident as he wrapped his long arms around Light and used his size to lean on him. Although Light had some fleeting moments of success, Okolie’s combinations and power punches were too difficult to overcome.
In the end, Okolie won by scores of 116-112, 119-108, and 117-110, defending his WBO cruiserweight world title against a tough and determined challenger. Despite his victory, Okolie acknowledged Light’s resilience and skill and called for anyone who thinks they can defeat him to step forward and prove it in the ring.
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