Paddy Donovan scored the biggest win of his career in Mannheim, Germany, dropping Karen Chukhadzhian twice on his way to a majority decision victory.
Donovan sent Chukhadzhian down in the sixth and eighth rounds, and those two moments proved decisive in a close IBF welterweight eliminator. The judges scored it 115-111, 114-112 and 113-113.
“Karen Chukhadzhian is one of the best fighters in the world and we knew this,” Donovan said afterward. “Now it’s back for the trilogy, come on Lewis Crocker. We’re back.”
Chukhadzhian pushed forward for long spells and finished strongly, but Donovan’s sharper counters and cleaner moments kept him in control at key points. A short left hand produced the first knockdown in round six, while a right hook as he turned Chukhadzhian brought the second in round eight.
Watch the official fight highlights here: Watch
The Ukrainian protested the second count, believing he had been pushed, but the knockdown stood. Donovan knew how important it was, punching the air at the end of the round as the fight remained tight.
Chukhadzhian had success late, especially in the 10th, 11th and final round, but Donovan stayed composed enough to reach the cards with the edge he needed. Trainer Andy Lee lifted him in celebration before the decision was announced.
After back-to-back defeats to Lewis Crocker, Donovan is now back in the title picture. With Crocker expected to defend against Liam Paro later this year, the Irishman has put himself back in position for another major welterweight opportunity.