In order to become the new WBA Super Lightweight Champion, Rolly Romero defeated Ismael Barroso tonight. However, the manner in which Rolly triumphed sparked debate in the boxing community, with many asserting that it was solely the consequence of poor refereeing.
The fight was largely going in Barroso’s favor. In the first eight rounds of the battle, the Venezuelan boxer consistently outperformed Rolando. To everyone’s amazement, referee Tony Weeks stopped the fight in the ninth round.
Rolly Romero was behind on all three judges scorecards at the time of the stoppage đ #RomeroBarroso pic.twitter.com/BR1W8NIs6A
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) May 14, 2023
Tony’s decision stunned everyone in the arena and watching the bout on television as it appeared that both boxers still had enough gas in their tanks to continue. When the official results were announced, it came as a big shock as Rolly won via technical knockout.
What did Rolly Romero say regarding the decision?
Not often even the winner doubts a fight result. For the newly crowned lightweight king, it came as a shock as well. In the post-fight interview, the American boxer expressed his surprise.
Rolando appreciated the way Ismael fought in the ring by saying, “Iâm gonna be honest, heâs a warrior, he wanted to keep going, he should have been able to keep going.”
WOW đ
Referee Tony Weeks stops the fight and @SignUp4KOs scores a TKO victory over Barroso to become the new WBA Super Lightweight champ đ #RomeroBarroso pic.twitter.com/SseQxDNoQu
— SHOWTIME Boxing (@ShowtimeBoxing) May 14, 2023
Getting the vacant lightweight title isn’t just Rolly’s only challenge. Rather getting back on the winning track was also important for the 28-year-old boxer. Remembering what happened against in his last fight against Gervonta Davis, Romero wanted to proceed carefully.
“I kept going and got the victory. I took my time, moved around. The manâs strong, man. I had to be careful with him. You think I want to get caught by one of (his punches)? I told you he can crack. I told everyone he can crack.” Romero added.
Romero stated at a press conference held on Thursday at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas that he wanted to fight Ryan Garcia next. Ryan is still processing his defeat to Tank, but now that Rolly is the new lightweight champion, KingRy will probably accept the offer as his next test.
Rolly Romero got dropped for only the second time in his career đł #RomeroBarroso pic.twitter.com/qVTP1mRivn
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) May 14, 2023
Do you anticipate a future lightweight battle between Rolando Romero and Ryan Garcia? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
