O’Shaquie Foster Regains Championship in Controversial Bout
O’Shaquie Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) avenged a previous loss and reclaimed the WBC super featherweight title with a controversial split decision victory after 12 rounds against Robson Conceição (19-3-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday night at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.
The rematch was not just a test of technique and power, but a strategic chess match, with both fighters adopting a cautious approach. Fans, expecting an action-packed revenge bout, were disappointed as both boxers employed tight defensive tactics, especially in the later rounds. Foster, known for his minimalist style, relied on defensive skills and occasional counter punches to frustrate Conceição.
The judges’ scores were split, with two scoring for Foster (115-113) and one for Conceição (115-113). Many fans and experts deemed the decision controversial, arguing that Conceição had shown more aggression, landing stronger and more precise punches.
Round 1
Immediate rematches are rare in boxing, but this one was called for by the WBC following Conceição’s controversial victory in July. Both fighters used their jabs early, but only Foster effectively combined them with other techniques. Conceição pressured Foster but, like in their first match, struggled to land accurate punches due to Foster’s defensive skills.
Round 2
Conceição targeted Foster’s body from the start of the round. With limited movement for both fighters, Conceição won this round by maintaining an aggressive position.
Round 3
Foster was cautious defensively as the round began, evading and slipping out of pressure. He stepped up his offense in the latter part of the round, landing quick combinations at close range, while Conceição scored with body shots. The round was close, with each fighter throwing powerful punches.
Round 4
Conceição blocked 72% of the punches aimed at him in the first three rounds. While Foster’s defensive skills were solid, they didn’t prevent Conceição’s precise punches from giving him an advantage during these rounds. Foster continued to throw punches and might have won this round, but he needed to be more active as the fight progressed.
Round 5
Foster was hardly hit in the last round yet still lost on the scorecards; he wanted to increase his offense and leave no doubt in this fight. Conceição remained aggressive, consistently attacking Foster’s body, but Foster landed a few powerful punches to secure the round.
Round 6
Foster’s defensive skills were just as good as in their first match, with most of Conceição’s punches missing him. While not many of Conceição’s punches were accurate or damaging, his activity and steady connections might help him win some close rounds. Foster looked comfortable but needed to step up his aggression.
Round 7
Neither fighter managed to land any significant punches in the first half of the round, with most shots being blocked. Conceição kept his hands low, but Foster didn’t capitalize on the opportunity. It was another close round where neither fighter did enough to pull ahead.
Round 8
Conceição started the round strong with several body shots against Foster. Foster quickly responded with a powerful left hook, prompting the referee to warn Conceição for holding. Conceição offered little response during this round as Foster pressed forward. Although Conceição threw a few punches at the end, Foster’s control throughout the round should have secured him the win.
Round 9
Foster began the round aggressively, moving towards Conceição and throwing more punches. Conceição landed a few strong counterpunches as he tried to withstand the new pressure from Foster. Conceição’s body shots were effective in this round, but both fighters struggled to deliver clean punches.
Round 10
Foster delivered a stunning two-punch combination in a counterattack at close range, setting the pace early in the round. Conceição continued to throw more punches; although not many were accurate, his aggressiveness could still influence the judges. Foster landed a strong straight right, possibly his best punch of the fight, in the second half of the round, but Conceição avoided any serious danger.
Round 11
As the fight reached its decisive rounds, Foster was leading Conceição 133-124. In the middle of the round, both fighters exchanged punches in the center of the ring, with Conceição landing some strong body shots, but Foster’s punches were more effective. Conceição kept throwing punches, but he began to tire while Foster remained composed.
Round 12
Both Conceição and Foster needed to give their all in the final round, with the decision still uncertain and the controversial scorecards from July fresh in their minds. Conceição applied significant pressure, throwing punches before clinching to smother any response from Foster. In the final minute, Foster picked up the pace and unleashed a flurry of punches, but nothing was enough to guarantee him the round.
In the closing rounds, Conceição ramped up his attack, landing powerful shots to Foster’s body and pushing him into the corner. However, Foster’s defensive skills and the judges’ decisions ultimately secured him the victory.
The Future of O’Shaquie Foster
With the WBC super featherweight title reclaimed, Foster has several enticing options for future bouts. Potential opponents include:
– Emanuel Navarrete: A skilled and powerful fighter who could pose a significant challenge for Foster.
– Raymond Muratalla, Abdullah Mason, or Keyshawn Davis: Talented young fighters looking to make their mark.
