Usyk starts strong, with nice footwork and great usage of angles. He changes up between obtuse and acute whenever he pleases. But LaStarzas experience starts to show in the mid rounds. He starts finding his jab, and nullifies Usyks footwork. He eventually finds a successful rhythm where he shoots flurries and combos out of a high guard. But when round 10 comes along, Usyks head movement shifts the momentum back in his favor. Until Cleveland Williams climbs through the ropes and smashes a bottle over his head. Nobody sees it coming, except for Primo Carnera, who everyone suddenly notices is standing on top of the turnbuckle. He jumps off, and lands on top of LaStarzas head with his elbow. The press disparages him. Amidst the chaos, Carmine Vingo is crowned the champion of the world. The stadium falls quiet as Tom Molineaux rises from his seat. Find out what happens next in the upcoming classic boxing podcast.
Lastarza had good defense, was in good shape and had a lot of heart. He’d linger for a while but ultimately ends up getting stopped late or widely decisioned.