The highly anticipated rematch between the two leading welterweights concluded, once again, in a draw.
GLORY Underground represented the organization`s first event held in the United States since GLORY 72 in Chicago, Illinois, back in 2019. The event took place at the Betr Warehouse in Miami, Florida, but was notably overshadowed by a distinct absence of professionalism.
Production quality suffered significantly. Although Joe Valtellini was back on commentary, his contributions were often eclipsed by two influencers linked to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who were reportedly consuming beer during the broadcast. Tim Hughes, typically a valuable presence adding authenticity, was absent.
The atmosphere was further strained by a small audience of around 200 spectators, many of whom appeared disengaged. Adding to the issues, the referee occasionally seemed uncertain about the rules, diminishing the event`s credibility. Consequently, the quality of some bouts was noticeably impacted.
Online reaction mirrored these concerns, with the YouTube live chat filled with criticism from fans decrying the amateurish commentary and poor presentation, which fell considerably short of the high standards expected from GLORY. Especially following the success of the recent Last Heavyweight Standing event, questions arose about the intended audience for Underground.
Kwasi and Beztati Fight to Another Draw
Despite the production issues, the two champions delivered a performance remarkably similar to their initial clash. Both fighters began cautiously in the first round, assessing each other. The second round, like the first, escalated in intensity, and Kwasi managed to drop Beztati, mirroring the outcome of their first fight.
The subsequent two rounds were closely contested. An invigorated Beztati attempted a comeback, likely winning the third and fourth rounds from the welterweight titleholder. The final round was exceptionally action-packed, with both fighters trading blows. Kwasi appeared to score another knockdown, but it was ruled a slip, and the fighters immediately resumed exchanging strikes in the closing seconds.
Surprisingly, the fight was again declared a draw. Neither competitor was pleased with the result; Beztati claimed in his post-fight interview that he had won four rounds, much to the welterweight champion`s apparent frustration.
Boapeah Dominates Latescu
Michael Boapeah extended his winning streak to five fights since his loss to middleweight champion Donovan Wisse. He systematically targeted and damaged Latescu`s calf throughout the first round, also utilizing his boxing and landing right knees to the Romanian`s body. The second round proved disastrous for Latescu as Boapeah found a way to attack his calf effectively and repeatedly.
Each strike to the calf caused Latescu visible pain, leading to three knockdowns within the single round. Following the final knockdown, the Romanian fighter appeared to give up, seemingly aware the fight was over. This defeat marks his fourth consecutive loss in the promotion, a significant decline for a fighter previously recognized as GLORY`s newcomer of the year.
This dominant performance likely positions Boapeah for a title shot in the light heavyweight division as he continues to climb towards the top ranks.
GLORY Underground Event Results
- Chico Kwasi (C) vs. Tyjani Beztati: Split Draw
- Michael Boapeah def. Stefan Latescu: TKO (Four Knockdowns), Round 2 at 1:54
- Don Sno def. Younes Smaili: Unanimous Decision
- Andrija Stankovic def. Gary Mack: Unanimous Decision
- Delvin Nichols def. Demitri Lyman: Split Decision