RSSAbell Wins, Ward Remains Undefeated
Joey Abell (right) connects with a punishing right hand to the head of Teke Oruh (left) en route to a 10-round majority decision. Photo: Tom Casino/Showtime
ST. LUCIA – Two previously undefeated fighters were handed their first loss on Friday night in paradise.
In the main event, hard-hitting heavyweight Joey Abell (18-1, 1 NC, 17 KOs) of Minneapolis, won a 10-round majority decision over previously undefeated Teke Oruh (14-1-1, six KOs) of Nigeria.
The judges at ringside scored the bout 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 in favor of Abell, who was a last- minute replacement for Mexican heavyweight contender Chris Arreola. Two weeks ago, Arreola withdrew from the fight after his close friend was shot and killed.
The Showtime acclaimed series ShoBox: The New Generation, aired live from the Eastern Caribbean Island at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast).
The event was promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions in association with the St. Lucia Tourist Board.
In the co feature, 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist Andre Ward (14-0, nine KOs), of Oakland, Calif., showed speed and power as he dominated the previously undefeated Roger Cantrell (12-1, eight KOs), of Washington, en route to a fifth-round TKO.
Cantrell was unable to fight inside or out, as he was stymied by Ward’s impressive hand speed.
Ward, who became the first American to win Olympic gold in 11 years at the 2004 Athens Games, has now outclassed more than a few opponents in building his professional resume. The confidence, agility and balance he displayed Friday night may prove that he is ready to face other legitimate super middleweight contenders.
Fight Results • Weight Classes • Heavyweight • Andre Ward • Joey Abell • Roger Cantrell • Teke Oruh