In an electrifying showdown, Brandon Figueroa delivered a stunning late-round knockout against Nick Ball, securing the WBA featherweight title at Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena.
With a record now standing at 27 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw (20 KOs), Figueroa expressed to BoxingScene this week that he had no reservations about traveling to the UK—a venue where foreign fighters have historically faced scrutiny regarding judging (https://www.boxingscene.com/articles/brandon-figueroa-on-nick-ball-fight-i-dont-plan-to-leave-it-to-the-judges). Although he was competing in Ball's hometown, Figueroa was determined not to leave the outcome in the hands of the judges. The fight was closely contested, and as it unfolded, Figueroa found himself leading on many ringside scorecards, including two of the three official judges' tallies. However, the exact scores were anyone's guess when the dramatic knockout occurred.
Figueroa rendered those scorecards irrelevant with a powerful left hook that landed squarely on Ball's chin, sending him crashing to the canvas. Despite Ball's courageous attempt to rise, he quickly fell back down. This emphatic finish marked Figueroa's third world title across two weight classes, cementing his reputation as a formidable fighter.
The match kicked off with an exhilarating first round that set the stage for the rest of the bout. Figueroa, at 29 years old, used his southpaw stance to jab at Ball, but the champion aggressively countered, landing a left uppercut that shook Figueroa. In response, Figueroa attempted to close the distance, but Ball managed to land a solid right hand. Ball, also 29, executed effective counters, particularly in the second round, landing another right over Figueroa's jab. Yet, Figueroa remained unfazed and continued to push the pace, targeting Ball's body with solid left hooks.
Despite being the larger fighter, Figueroa frequently opted for close-quarters combat rather than utilizing his size advantage. He effectively connected with his right hand and kept pressuring Ball into a corner. However, Ball fought back fiercely, managing to escape his corner and inviting Figueroa forward as the bell rang.
The fourth round saw Figueroa take control, rocking Ball with a left hand against the ropes. The action escalated as both fighters exchanged wild hooks, but Figueroa was landing more significant blows. By the end of the round, Ball showed signs of wear, entering his corner with blood trickling from his nose, indicating another break, and swelling around his left eye. As the fight progressed, it appeared that Figueroa was gaining the upper hand, exuding confidence. Ball, however, showcased his skill, landing two impressive left hooks in the sixth round, only to be met with a rapid-fire response from Figueroa.
In the seventh round, Ball regrouped, waiting for the right moment to counterattack, landing a clean right hand followed by a left. Figueroa retaliated in Round 8, launching a barrage of punches while Ball found a way to hurt Figueroa with a right hand that forced him to cover up, although Figueroa still managed to deliver a significant shot to Ball's body.
As the ninth round approached, Figueroa consistently pushed Ball against the ropes, outworking him. Although Ball's reach was shorter, he began timing Figueroa’s movements effectively, landing noteworthy jabs while Figueroa landed more punches overall. With the fight tightening, it became increasingly challenging to score as they entered the final rounds. It was evident that both fighters needed the last round to secure victory.
Figueroa started the twelfth round explosively, connecting a devastating left hand that sent Ball sprawling to the mat. The arena fell silent as Ball lay face down, yet he managed to rise before referee Gray could complete the count. The referee paused to give Ball a chance, but Figueroa wasted no time, launching an aggressive assault that left Ball defenseless against the ropes. Ball tumbled through the ropes in his effort to recover, but the referee intervened, stopping the fight as he recognized Ball’s inability to continue.
Following the stoppage, tensions flared. Figueroa’s team, understandably ecstatic about their fighter’s victory, jumped into the ring, which did not sit well with Ball’s corner. Instantly, stablemates Andrew Cain and Brad Strand attempted to intervene but were restrained by security. The crowd from Ball's hometown erupted in discontent, throwing drinks into the ring in a chaotic scene. Thankfully, order was swiftly restored.
Ball, who now holds a record of 23 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw (13 KOs), received applause as he finally stood up, but the night undeniably belonged to Figueroa, who once again proved why he is known as "The Heartbreaker."
This fight was not just another title bout; it showcased the heart and determination of two incredible athletes. What did you think of the fight? Did Figueroa's strategy surprise you? Share your thoughts in the comments!
