Vijender Singh retained his WBO Asia Pacific Super Middleweight title by knocking out Francis Cheka in the third round of an incredible fight in New Delhi. The Indian brought forth his A-game as he took on Francis Cheka on the night that mattered. Displaying immense ability, Vijender knocked the Tanzanian out in some style while exuding incredible confidence. He even managed to mock Cheka mid-fight.
Eventually, Vijender Singh emerged as the victor in style at the packed Thyagaraj Stadium ring in New Delhi knocking out Cheka as early as in the 3rd round thus successfully defending his title. This was the Indian pugilist’s eighth consecutive win in professional boxing and 2nd at home. It was also Vijender’s seventh knockout in eight bouts.
The largest professional boxing event in the country lived up to all expectations as the millions of viewers were presented with great boxing action. The night saw a total of five Indian boxers going up against different boxers from around the world, of which four emerged as winners.
Vijender’s bout was the last of the night and obviously, the most exciting fight of the night. The event was attended by top Indian sports personalities including Sushil Kumar and other politicians who all came to support the Haryana boxer.
The home crowd showed immense support for Vijender as they started shouting his name as soon as he entered the ring. Cheka tried to go into the attack mode with his unpredictable punches and jabs right from the first round but Vijender started cautiously not letting his guard down even for one second. The Indian landed in 3 punches to Cheka’s one in the opening round.
The 2nd round saw the Indian boxer using his superior height to great effect as he waited for an opening and landed in a couple of serious blows including a jab and a hook on Cheka. Cheka tried to use his body movements to try and sidestep Vijender’s jabs but to no avail. The second round ended with the 31-year-old Indian landing 7 punches to the Tanzanian’s 3.
The third round began with Cheka going for the big jab from the get go. However, Vijender defended well yet again and used his movements to evade the opponent’s lunges. After successfully landing a solid punch on Cheka’s face, Vijender let out a sly smile as if to taunt his opponent. He then connected strongly as the Tanzanian appeared to have blood in his mouth. The referee declared a knock-out as Vijender prevailed in the bout.
Cheka was the toughest opponent Vijender has faced so far, in terms of success and experience and yet he managed to get the better of the Tanzanian Lion after just 1 minute and 56 seconds into the third round.
Speaking after the match, Vijender said, “Spent two months in Manchester to prepare. Thanks to everyone for the support and the team. I believe in punch power and thanks to everyone for the support tonight.” Truly, the words of a champion.
