Nick Ball successfully defended his WBA featherweight world title by forcing TJ Doheny to retire after 10 rounds.
The fight began in a strange manner when, in the first round at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena, Doheny grabbed the champion in a headlock. Ball, reacting in frustration, kicked his opponent’s leg, causing Doheny to fall.
Ball avoided punishment for the initial incident but later had a point deducted in the ninth round for throwing Doheny.
Ultimately, Ball’s powerful punches proved decisive.
Doheny, a seasoned fighter and former world champion in a lower weight class, who previously fought against undisputed champion Naoya Inoue, presented challenges to Ball in the early stages of the bout.
As a southpaw, Doheny displayed skillful movement and found opportunities to land shots on Ball.
However, fighting in his hometown, Ball was determined to win. Overcoming moments of frustration, he gradually wore down Doheny.
By the ninth round, Doheny’s right eye was swelling as Ball increased his pressure. Doheny, showing signs of fatigue, struggled to fend off Ball’s attacks.
Ball pressed forward aggressively in the 10th round. Doheny, after enduring considerable punishment, was eventually withdrawn by his corner at the end of the round.
Ball, a prominent figure in British boxing, enjoyed a successful 2024. Despite a controversial draw against Rey Vargas in a WBC title fight, he secured the WBA belt by defeating Raymond Ford.
“I need to be focused and patient,” Ball mentioned to TNT Sports post-fight. “People want to see non-stop action, but I can also box strategically, and I’ve demonstrated both aspects now.”
“I could sense him tiring due to my pace. So, everything worked out well.”
The Liverpool boxer hopes that Japanese superstar Inoue, the undisputed super-bantamweight champion, will move up to featherweight, paving the way for a potential high-profile fight.
Promoter Frank Warren told TNT Sports: “If it happens, it will likely be towards the end of this year, or perhaps early next year, that’s the plan. He won’t remain inactive until then; he will want to fight. Our role is to keep him active and continue to bring him back here.”
“We are in Liverpool, and everyone has turned out in support. They are a fantastic crowd,” he added. “We will keep returning for your champion.”
