The Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, was the backdrop for a riveting night of boxing that promised high stakes and delivered even higher drama. The event featured a mix of established names and rising stars, all vying for glory in their respective weight classes.
In the main event, Richardson Hitchins (17-0, 7 KOs) took on seasoned veteran Jose Zepeda (37-4, 28 KOs) in a twelve-round bout that had fans and analysts talking. Hitchins employed a Mayweather-esque potshot style, focusing on jabs and strategic holds to navigate the fight. The judges’ scorecards reflected a dominant performance, but not without its share of tactical nuances that kept the audience guessing.
The co-main event was nothing short of electrifying, featuring Conor Benn (22-0, 14 KOs) making his comeback against the formidable Rodolfo Orozco (32-4-3, 24 KOs). Despite facing a size and reach disadvantage, Benn displayed resilience and tactical acumen to secure a unanimous decision. Orozco, who was cut above his right eye early in the fight, showed incredible toughness but ultimately couldn’t sway the judges.
The undercard was equally captivating, with a controversial draw in the women’s division between WBO welterweight champion Sandy Ryan (6-1-1, 2 KOs) and IBF, WBA, & WBC champ Jessica McCaskill (12-3-1, 5 KOs). In the middleweight division, Austin “Ammo” Williams (15-0, 10 KOs) faced off against Steve Rolls (22-3, 12 KOs) in a bout that tested the mettle of the rising star. Williams secured a unanimous decision, but not without exposing areas that need improvement as he ascends the middleweight ranks.
Image Credit: Matchroom Boxing