All it proves though, is that anywhere else in the world other than the USA, and the right decision will be made. Gassiev bullied lebedev a showing of strength and youth. And rightfully got the nod.
Good fight. Still there was that one 114-113 judge trying to screw up the evening, but Gassiev was the right winner.
Gassiev is a vicious puncher, but was getting outjabbed by Lebedev. He won't hold that title long if he doesn't fix that.
I find it funny how people have been saying things like this. Sky commentators were talking like Gassiev is a prospect and needs more seasoning and that was just a stepping stone fight. So delusional Lebedev is one of the best of the best at cruiserweight and he got bashed from pillar to post. I don't see anyone beating Gassiev apart from Breidis and Usyk. Even Breidis and Usyk will have to be at 110% or they won't win Gassiev is a beast. Lebedev is one of the hardest hitters with one of the best chin's in the division and he wasn't looking like either for this fight. I'd give Glowacki, Cunningham and Huck almost no chance against Gassiev
What a hell of a fight it was,very brutal and merciless encounter between two big punchers.I scored the fight for Gassiev but it was a close one which could have gone either way.I would certainly not argue the toss with someone who had Lebedev win that fight. A pity that Lebedev didnt put all his eggs in one basket in round 10 and go for the kill.Gassiev was visibly hurt.For a very short moment of time Lebedev had the chance to take Gassiev out of the fight. As for Gassiev he proved that he is the real deal,has impressive firepower and a very good chin.Lebedev can punch like a mule and the vast mayority of today's cruiser wouldnt survived that punch in round 10.Props to Lebedev for having such a huge heart and being such a teak tough cookie. I also take my hat off to Gassiev.As long as he wont fight Usyk he will be king of the hill for a very long time to come.
The cruiserweight division isn't the best in terms of skills but it's competitive, everyone comes to fight and the top guys actually fight each other.