Erickson Lubin stops Ishe Smith in three
Erickson Lubin (19-1, 14KOs) would look to continue his comeback since losing to former WBC champion Jermell Charlo against always-game former IBF champion Ishe Smith (29-10, 12KOs).
Lubin, who hired veteran trainer Kevin Cunningham following his lone defeat, will look to correct some of his defensive flaws and work his way into title contention. Smith is on a two-fight losing streak; both losses coming via close split decisions to Julian Williams and Tony Harrison. He needs this fight to to remain a viable contender.
Round one starts off beautifully for Lubin. Everything is working for him. His jab and straight left seemingly can’t miss. Smith is fighting aggressively but, his lack of quickness is leaving him open to hard counters. He’s dropped on a counter-left from Lubin and looks visibly hurt.
The fight remained the same in round two, with Lubin mixing in bodywork to go along with crisp head shots. Round three would be the final round of the fight, as Lubin would score another knockdown and beat Smith from pillar to post. As a result, the underdog would not answer the bell to start the fourth.
Now it would seem Lubin is ready for a lower tier junior middleweight contender. Fights with Charles Hatley, Liam Smith, or Roberto Garcia seem logical.
As for Smith, at age 39 and given how poor this performance was, he should seriously consider retirement.
By: Corey Cunningham
