Harlem Eubank claimed “this is my year” after he knocked down and beat Miguel Antin in a televised fight on Channel 5.
Eubank faced a tough challenge from the Argentine substitute, but took charge of the bout after landing a body shot that sent his opponent to the mat in the sixth round, at York Hall on Friday night.
The super lightweight, who is targeting a British title opportunity, repeated the feat in the next round to secure a clear advantage in the contest.
Eubank, who improved his record to 17-0, won by unanimous decision with scores of 98-90, 97-91 and 99-89, on the Wasserman Boxing show, in partnership with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
The 29-year-old from Brighton hoped to use his main event slot in London to showcase his skills and ambitions for a big 2023 and after overcoming Antin, Eubank stated he is prepared to face higher-level opponents.
Harlem Eubank said: “I have heart, I have skill, I have courage, and I have entertainment. And this was 10 entertaining rounds.
“Against the better opposition, who I want to fight later this year, these are valuable rounds for those fights and we’re ready for anyone as we progress through this year.
“This is my year.”
Another knockout artist who impressed on the night was heavyweight prospect Matty Harris, who needed only 23 seconds to dispatch Milos Veletic. Harris has stopped all four of his opponents in the first round and is looking to challenge for titles soon.
Harris said: “I have been working on my left hand and I wanted to show it off tonight. I am ready for anyone in the heavyweight division.”
Sauerland added: “Matty Harris is a special talent who has been sparring with Anthony Joshua. He has dynamite in both hands and he can move like a cruiserweight. He is a future star of the sport and we are aiming for the world youth title by the end of the year.”
Also on the card, Abass Baraou earned a shot at the European super welterweight title by stopping Ferenc Katona in the third round. Baraou dropped Katona in the first round and finished him off with a flurry of punches in the third.
Sophie Alisch made a successful UK debut by outpointing Gemma Ruegg over six rounds. Alisch showed her speed, skill and power in a one-sided affair.
Jesse Brandon enhanced his reputation as a knockout specialist by stopping Borja Lopez in the first round. Brandon landed a devastating right hand that sent Lopez crashing to the canvas.
Codie Smith started his professional career with a unanimous decision win over Luca Genovese in a competitive four-round bout. Smith showed his heart and determination in a hard-fought victory.
In the last fight of the night, Harry Scarff won a close and exciting eight-round contest against Jordan Dujon. Scarff edged out Dujon with his superior work rate and accuracy.
I had to search for the Harlem Eubank result ! !