Madrimov v Walker
In the co-main event for Braekhus v McCaskill, the talented super welterweight Israil “The Dream” Madrimov (5-0, 5 KO’s) defeated Eric “Baby Faced Assassin” Walker (20-2, 9 KO’s) by way of unanimous decision. Not only was it a thrilling win on the big stage, the prizefight was also a WBA title eliminator.
The bout opened with Madrimov attempting to press the action. However, he would discover that Walker had solid defense and a serviceable jab. During the second round, the Baby Faced Assassin took a slight lead in the fight. The Dream never stopped trying to press the action but was not able to land with any sort of consistency. His opponent, however, was landing well and very dedicated to punishing the body.
In the third period, Madrimov switched tactics to great effect. He did this by making the bout much more physical and grueling. This would prove to be a notable shift in the bout as Walker would not look as crisp or energetic for a number of rounds.
Yet, just as it seemed like The Dream was going to walk away with the contest, Madrimov suddenly began looking very lethargic in the seventh. Although, this was the first time that he had ever been that deep as a pro.
In the ninth round, referee Gary Ritter made an absolutely atrocious ruling and stole a knockout victory from Madrimov with one swift call. While pressing Walker back, The Dream connected with a powerful left hook that flattened the Baby Faced Assassin to the canvas.
AN ODD TURN
Then, for some odd reason, referee Ritter ruled that it was not a knock down. In fact, because Walker was truly hurt, he could not immediately continue and was given five minutes to recover. After using several minutes to gather himself, Walker would carry on with the bout. Yet, he did so in very fatigued and jelly-legged fashion. By some miracle the Baby Faced Assassin made it to the end of the match despite the extreme fatigue that obviously had set in.
Once the prizefight was put into the hands of the judges, they awarded the win to Madrimov by unanimous decision.
By: Bakari Simpson
