After the anticlimax of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao’s ‘scuffle’, many had tipped Saturday night’s main event to be the fight of the year (most certainly in these parts anyway).
The fight was always going to be a roller coaster ride, however I don’t think any of us anticipated the bout to be quiet as ferocious as it was.
Coyle’s approach was aggressive as ever and we saw two sides to Luke Campbell; who not only outclassed his opponent but showed a tenacious edge as the fight progressed.
Prior to, and in the early stages of the fight, many seemed split as to who would eventually come out on top – Coyle perhaps classed as the underdog had the East side of the city behind him, though Hull’s Olympic champion had his firm following.
A betting man would probably have gone for Campbell before the first bell (myself included) yet admittedly I was sceptical as the two took to the ring; after all, Coyle has proved his critics wrong in the past.
Still Campbell reaffirmed himself as potentially one of the best in the business.
His showing on home soil merited a dignified salute from Coyle; who has since the final bell taken to social media to congratulate his opponent.
“Hull… Thank you for an ever lasting memory. I really did try my best but Luke Campbell was just too good.” Were Coyle’s words to his Twitter followers.
Obviously the majority would agree after Campbell’s 10th round stoppage, though Coyle has since regained some of his old bite stating “We never lose, we only learn, the journey continues…”.
Campbell’s progression will undoubtedly involve more high-profile fights, as he moves a step closer to the WBC Lightweight title.
Coyle however seemed to relegate himself to ‘domestic’ fights as he spoke to the Sky Sports cameras on Saturday.
“The world is really going to appreciate him (Campbell) because he’s a special talent.
“I’m a domestic fighter at best and that’s that.” Said an emotianal Coyle.
This is perhaps slightly harsh on Coyle who showed incredible courage and by no means disgraced his reputation in the process.
Campbell however lived up to his name of ‘cool hands’ with a performance to rival any of his previous victories.
The 27-year praised his opponent on the night, though critics and spectators were quick to show their admiration for the victor.
“He’s Britain’s greatest ever amateur. In two years I want him fighting for the world title here.” Said his promoter Eddie Hearn.
This may be from a slightly biased source, but who’s to argue with Hearn following this blistering display of boxing from Hull’s golden boy.
For those of you who missed Saturday night’s main event, here is the link to the full fight.
Hullture Hub 