Boxer Lawrence Okolie was flanked by UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya and former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua
It was an electrifying night at the O2 Arena, as undefeated British boxing star Lawrence Okolie walked out to defend his cruiserweight belt.
His walkout to the fight was momentous, supported by fighting royalty Israel Adesanya and Anthony Joshua. Both fighters share a Nigerian heritage with Okolie, and it was a beautiful display of representing your roots. While Israel Adesanya is fresh off his UFC 271 victory against Robert Whittaker, Joshua is preparing for his rematch against Oleksandr Usyk.
Sports truly transcends boundaries and barriers, and moments like these are a reminder of what combat fighters fight for.
Lawrence Okolie defeats Michal Cieslak and retains WBO cruiserweight title
Lawrence Olkolie made a successful defense of his cruiserweight title with a comfortable victory over Michal Cieslak. Although it was a rather humdrum performance, he managed to scrap a unanimous decision.
The judges scorecard read 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 – all to Okolie.
Following the fight, Okolie spoke to 5 Live Boxing saying, “It was a flat performance and I allowed it to get messy,”
“This was one of those days where it was tough, awkward, and the guy was physically strong, but I need to work on the mentality that it doesn’t need to be perfect.
“I will go back to the gym, go again and make it right the next time.”
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