Denis Lebedev makes a successful return
Lebedev returns to the ring after a thirteen month layoff and made a major statement against challenger Hizni Altunkaya.
The first round saw both men trying to establish their game plan. The former unified champion was a little rusty as expected. However, he showed good ring IQ while keeping his lead foot outside of his opponent’s to gain position.
The underdog was the taller man with and used every bit of his two-inch reach advantage by boxing from the outside. However, he got caught with a straight left that dropped him to one knee early in the second round.
The WBA #9 challenger showed inexperience when fighting a southpaw fighter as he constantly leaned towards the right putting him in line for a straight left.
The third round saw Lebedev finding his rhythm, using his jab and landing the straight left. Eventually dropping his opponent to win by knockout.
INTERESTING FACTS
Noticable faces in the crowd were former undisputed champions Kostya Tszyu and Iron Mike Tyson.
Previously reported by 3kingsboxing, Lebedev was placed as a champion in recess by the WBA. Recently, the organization mandated that undisputed cruiserweight champion Oleksander Uysk face the former champion.
With recent news of Usyk signing with Matchroom Boxing, this could solidify on-going negotiations with Tony Bellew into a fight later this year.
One thing is for sure, Lebedev is back and is looking to reclaim his place at the top.
3kingsboxing will continue to follow this story and provide any further developments.
By: Garrisson Bland
