Chris Algieri made an incredible comeback by rising from the canvas twice in the first round and battling through a severely swollen right eye to defeat Ruslan Provodnikov and win the WBO junior welterweight title at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn via split decision.
Two judges scored the fight 114-112 in favor of Algieri, reflecting an eight rounds to four advantage for the challenger. The third judge had it 117-109 for Provodnikov, indicating a 9-3 round score in favor of the defending champion. BLH also scored it 114-112 for Algieri, while HBO’s Steve Weisfeld scored it 117-109 for Provodnikov.
Overall, there was little controversy regarding the decision, which appeared fair. The fight was a thrilling and evenly matched clash of styles. Provodnikov’s physical strength had the potential to overwhelm Algieri when he managed to close the distance. Algieri barely survived the first round but boxed effectively thereafter, demonstrating a near-heroic effort as he evaded Provodnikov’s relentless pressure.
Entering as a +450 underdog, Algieri (20-0, 8 KO) and his team believed their strategy could upset Provodnikov (23-3, 16 KO). They succeeded, despite Provodnikov’s reputation as a powerful, relentless puncher. Algieri’s superior boxing skills and consistent jab kept Provodnikov at bay, allowing him to accumulate enough rounds to secure the victory.
After the fight, Provodnikov told HBO’s Max Kellerman, “I have to admit, runners are not my style. I prefer fighters who stand and engage with me. This is the worst style for me.
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