Josh Kelly Retains IBF Light-Middleweight Title in Bruising Saudi Arabia Clash with Agyarko
Josh Kelly successfully defended his IBF light-middleweight world championship against Caoimhin Agyarko in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, winning by points decision. The Sunderland fighter dominated the opening rounds and controlled much of the bout, establishing his authority over his Belfast challenger who aspired to become the first black Irish world champion.
The contest grew increasingly physical as it unfolded, with Kelly receiving a point deduction in the sixth round for repeated low blows to his opponent. Despite this setback, Kelly maintained sufficient advantage to secure victory in a bruising encounter. Agyarko suffered his first professional defeat and subsequently acknowledged that his performance fell short of what was required to claim the title, though he felt the closing stages of the fight bolstered his case.
- Josh Kelly defended his IBF light-middleweight title against Caoimhin Agyarko in Saudi Arabia by points decision
- Kelly controlled early rounds but was docked a point for low blows; the fight became increasingly physical throughout
- Agyarko's first career loss; he admitted his performance 'didn't do enough' despite believing he competed well late
Coverage
- BBC Sport — Bloodied Kelly battles past Agyarko to retain title
- BBC Sport — Agyarko ‘didn’t do enough’ in world title defeat