Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY, set the stage for an electrifying night of boxing that captivated fans from the opening bell to the final decision. Despite the long drive from Massachusetts, I found myself back at one of my favorite venues, eagerly anticipating the main event: a rematch between O’Shaquie Foster and Robson Conceicao. This rematch felt necessary, as Foster looked to reclaim his WBC Super Featherweight title after a controversial loss to Conceicao. Conceicao had been on a little bit of a streak lately. Getting a draw with WBO Super Featherweight Champion Emanuel Navarrete two fights ago. Although going down twice in the fight, there was an argument that Conceicao should have won that night. This would lead to another title shot and surprising win. Conceicao was out to prove that the win over Foster was no fluke and he was a legit champion.
Kicking Off with a Brutal Knockout
The night opened with a bang as heavyweight Damian Knyba delivered a crushing one-punch knockout against Richard Lartey in the third round. Lartey couldn’t recover, and the referee waived off the count, marking a significant moment in Knyba’s rise as a heavyweight contender.
Santana Overpowers Baez
Eduardo Baez, known for his tenacity, took on Yan Santana in a thrilling matchup. Baez showed resilience, but Santana’s powerful punches wore him down, and by the fourth round, a series of brutal combinations led to the referee calling off the fight. Santana’s impressive power was evident, putting Baez away in an intense showcase of his talent.
Quick Work by Ali Felix
Dominican prospect Ali Felix faced Rashad Coulter in the next bout. Felix only needed two rounds to defeat Coulter, despite Coulter’s protests about the stoppage. The small Dominican contingent in the crowd roared in support, adding to the event’s vibrant energy.
Jahi Tucker vs. Quilisto Madera: A Rough Fight
(Mandatory Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)
The battle between Jahi Tucker and Quilisto Madera was intense from the start. Tucker, fighting for his contract, came out aggressive. After a rough back-and-forth, Tucker secured a stoppage in the final round with a chopping right that sent Madera stumbling. Tucker’s victory was hard-fought and well-deserved.
A Split Decision Draw for Abraham Nova vs. Humberto Galindo
(Mandatory Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)
Fan-favorite Abraham “Super” Nova, complete with his mascot, faced Humberto Galindo in an exciting bout that went the distance. Despite Nova’s solid performance, the match ended in a split draw, with judges’ scores at 97-93 Galindo, 96-94 Nova, and 95-95. Many fans felt Nova edged out the win, but Galindo’s pressure made for a compelling contest.
Local Favorite Bryce Mills Defeats Mike Ohan Jr.
(Mandatory Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)
Local hero Bryce Mills entered the ring to thunderous applause as he faced Massachusetts’ Mike Ohan Jr. Mills brought intensity from the start, landing powerful shots that led Ohan’s corner to call the fight after six rounds. Mills claimed victory via TKO, much to the delight of his hometown fans.
Muratalla Stuns Perez
(Mandatory Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)
Raymond Muratalla took on Jesus Perez, who was coming off an upset victory over former champion Jo Jo Diaz. Muratalla showcased his skill in the second round, knocking down Perez twice and landing follow-up shots that left Perez unable to continue.
The Main Event: Foster Reclaims His Title
(Mandatory Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)
In the highly anticipated rematch, O’Shaquie Foster looked determined to reclaim his title from Robson Conceicao. The fight was a technical battle, with each fighter displaying skill and strategy. Foster managed to push the pace and seemed to wait for Conceicao to tire. In a close contest that went to the scorecards, Foster emerged victorious via a split decision, regaining his WBC Super Featherweight title. While waiting to conduct post fight interviews, one of the monitors ringside was focused on both fighters in the respective dressing rooms. Conceicao with marks all over his face, Foster with a big bag of ice on his hands. It definitely was a hard fight for both men. The night at Turning Stone was filled with excitement, powerful performances, and intense bouts, making it a memorable experience for fans and fighters alike.
