Nigerian-born British heavyweight David Adeleye is back in the spotlight—this time for the right reasons.
Adeleye captured the vacant British heavyweight title with a controversial yet emphatic sixth-round stoppage of Jeamie Tshikeva at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena. The bout took place on the undercard of the Joe Joyce vs. Filip Hrgovic fight, and Adeleye didn’t waste the opportunity to make a statement.
This victory marks a redemption arc after his defeat to Fabio Wardley in 2023. With this latest win, Adeleye also adds the prestigious Lonsdale Belt to his growing résumé.
How the Fight Unfolded
Early Rounds: A Tactical Start
The fight began with both boxers showing mutual respect—even touching gloves at the end of the first round. Tshikeva, using his reach, started gaining confidence in Round 2, showcasing a stiff jab and keeping Adeleye at bay with well-timed counters.
At times, Adeleye appeared tentative, as Tshikeva managed to place his right hand over the top, disrupting Adeleye’s rhythm.
Round 6: Adeleye Seizes His Moment
Everything changed in the sixth round.
Tshikeva, during a clinch, made a crucial mistake—dropping his hands. Adeleye saw the opening and unleashed a sharp left hook, sending Tshikeva crashing to the canvas.
Though Tshikeva beat the count, he was still clearly hurt. Moments later, Adeleye landed a devastating overhand right, which floored his opponent once again.
Tshikeva rose to his feet once more, but referee Kearney waved off the contest at 55 seconds into the round, ruling that Tshikeva was unfit to continue.
Adeleye’s Championship Journey
This win marks a significant comeback for Adeleye, who was stopped by Fabio Wardley in the seventh round of their 2023 clash on the Fury vs. Ngannou undercard.
Before that, Adeleye had built a solid resume and was previously crowned English heavyweight champion after a knockout victory over Solomon Dacres.
His win over Tshikeva now elevates him to British champion status and places him back among the rising stars in UK boxing.
Controversy Around the Stoppage
While Adeleye’s finishing shots were clean and powerful, some boxing fans and analysts debated whether the stoppage came too early. Tshikeva appeared dazed but upright, and some felt he could have continued.
However, others argued that the referee made the right call in prioritizing fighter safety.
Conclusion
David Adeleye’s sixth-round TKO over Jeamie Tshikeva not only earned him the British heavyweight title but also reignited his career. The Nigerian-born boxer has shown resilience, power, and timing—and now he’s wearing the Lonsdale Belt with pride.
As he looks to climb the heavyweight ladder, Adeleye has sent a message: he’s far from done.
FAQs
1. Who did David Adeleye defeat to win the British heavyweight title?
He defeated Jeamie Tshikeva via sixth-round TKO.
2. When and where did the fight take place?
It took place at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester on the undercard of Joe Joyce vs. Filip Hrgovic.
3. Was the stoppage controversial?
Yes, some viewers felt Tshikeva could have continued, while others supported the referee’s decision to stop the fight for safety.
4. What is the Lonsdale Belt?
The Lonsdale Belt is one of the most prestigious titles in British boxing, awarded to the British champion in each weight class.
5. What’s next for David Adeleye?
With the British title secured, Adeleye is likely to target European honors or a rematch with Fabio Wardley.
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