In a thrilling matchup on the “Ring of Fire” card in Riyadh, Agit Kabayel showcased his dominance by delivering a spectacular stoppage win over fellow unbeaten Frank Sanchez. This victory propelled Kabayel’s record to an impressive 25-0(17) while marking the first defeat for Sanchez, who now stands at 24-1(17). Both fighters, aged 31, weighed in at 238.5 pounds, setting the stage for an intense showdown.
Despite Kabayel’s exceptional performance, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges that Sanchez faced during the fight. Observers noted that Sanchez wore a knee brace on his right leg, which appeared to impact his movement and overall performance. Throughout the bout, Sanchez struggled to find his rhythm, often retreating to the ropes in search of counter opportunities. However, Kabayel’s relentless aggression and powerful right hand attacks kept Sanchez on the defensive, leading to a one-sided contest.
From the opening round, Kabayel set the tone for the fight, dictating the pace and controlling the action. His superior boxing skills and strategic body shots gradually wore down Sanchez, leaving him vulnerable to Kabayel’s relentless assault. With each passing round, Kabayel continued to land clean shots and accumulate points, showcasing his prowess as a formidable heavyweight contender.
The culmination of Kabayel’s masterful performance came in the seventh round when he delivered a series of devastating body shots that sent Sanchez to the canvas. A final blow to the solar plexus left Sanchez writhing in pain, prompting the referee to call an end to the fight at 2:33 of the seventh round. This victory, deemed a WBC eliminator, represents a significant milestone in Kabayel’s career, solidifying his position as a rising star in the heavyweight division.
Following the bout, Sanchez required medical attention in the corner, underscoring the physical toll of the fight. If Sanchez did indeed enter the ring with pre-existing injuries, questions arise about the wisdom of his decision to compete under such conditions. As he embarks on his path to recovery, Sanchez faces a challenging road ahead, grappling with the aftermath of his first professional defeat and the implications of his injury concerns.