Abass Baraou thrilled fans at the Wasserman Boxing Fight Night at London’s York Hall last night winning his fight via technical KO victory in the third round. The 28-year-old super welterweight dominated his opponent Ferenc Katona from the first round, impressing with fast and variable combinations of punches and excellent awareness in the ring. A heavy right hand from Baraou brought Katona down at the end of the first round, but the brave Hungarian just made it to the bell.
Abass Baraou didn’t let go and shook his opponent repeatedly with hard body and head shots in the second round. After 25 seconds of the third round, Katona’s corner had seen enough – the towel came flying in the ring.. Baraou is now set to fight against the undefeated Frenchman Milan Prat for the prestigious European Championship.
“I’m happy to have been back in the ring after a year’s break,” says Abass Baraou. “The atmosphere was great; for me, London is the mecca of boxing. I had a lot of fun in the ring. Now I’m hunting for the European title, as I’m the mandatory challenger. That’s why there won’t be a long break, I’m going straight back to the gym.” Promoter Kalle Sauerland adds: “Abass thrilled fans in England today and showed that he is not only one of the best boxers in Germany, but also in the world elite. Next up is the European Championship against a very strong opponent, but for me, Abass is the clear favorite in today’s form. I’m sure he’ll bring the title back to Germany.”
The evening at York Hall couldn’t have gone much better for Sophie Alisch either. The 21-year-old featherweight left no doubt against the experienced Briton Gemma Ruegg and won a clear points victory over six rounds. Alisch had control of the fight at every stage and was able to land many decisive punches that shook Ruegg time and again – so the verdict of referee Sean McAvoy was no surprise: 60-54 for Alisch, who remained undefeated in her ninth professional fight.
“It was a great experience to box here in London. I want to get better step by step and fight by fight,” says Sophie Alisch. “We’re all very happy. I’m only 21 years old and have a lot ahead in my career. If there’s a chance for a big fight, of course, I’d take it without hesitation. But I still have a lot of time.” Kalle Sauerland was also thrilled with the young boxer’s performance: “Sophie showed a great performance and won every round. She’s already extremely advanced for her age; Sophie is incredibly talented and has enormous potential. I firmly believe she’ll become a world champion.”
