IBF Bantamweight Challenge
Tonight’s Matchroom/DAZN Co Main Event between long reigning IBF Bantamweight Champion Maria Cecilia Roman (16-6-1) and well-liked Australian star Ebanie Bridges (8-1, 3 Kos) was an exciting showdown that definitely brought some “hype” at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, England.
Ebanie brought the “heat” early and kept her hands busy by staying aggressive with some very good punch output from head to body. Ebanie boxed beautifully and stayed one step ahead at all corners in the first half of the bout.
That being said, Maria wasn’t the longest reigning Champion for no reason. Maria proceeded to utilized her experience in the second half of the bout to slowly regain some ground. The two combatants exchanged leather for leather going back and forth but it was Ebanie’s higher work rate throughout the bout that clearly separated the two warriors in my eyes.
As we got closer to the championship rounds fatigue started to show on Ebanie giving Maria a better chance at reclaiming some much needed rounds but Ebanie’s sheer will to stay alert and bang with the Champ carried her all the way to the later rounds.
After 10 full rounds of exciting action the Judges scored it 100-91, 97-93, 97-93 all in favor for the New IBF Bantamweight Champion Ebanie Bridges.
Aside from the Judge who scored it 100-91, the right combatant definitely won the bout. Hands Down.
Ebanie’s early work rate and good boxing paid dividends tonight, although she tired near the end, she boxed a good fight and showed much improvement on the biggest night of her career to date.
Congratulations Ebanie – you have now entered the Winner’s Circle of Champions.
Blaze