SAM NOAKES retained his European lightweight title after opponent Gianluca Ceglia quit after eight rounds.
The Italian didn’t land many punches and posed no threat to the Maidstone fighter, who is 15-0 with 14 wins in his fights.
Noakes’ first defence at York Hall was a one-sided affair with the champion coming forward throughout, landing shots to the head and body but never looking like he was hurting his mandatory challenger. Ceglia, on the other hand, was content to cower and absorb whatever came his way, landing a few quick strikes that reminded you he was a fighter.
A bludgeoning blow from Noakes in the sixth round sent the veteran into motion but he failed to capitalise on the small opening.
The 27-year-old champion won every minute of every round, and as the rounds progressed, Ceglia’s efforts faltered. As the 34-year-old’s face began to show signs of wear and tear, the fight was nearing its end, and late in the eighth round he spoke to his trainer, Gaetano Nesparo, stating that there was a problem on the right side of his face. That was then reported to referee Fabian Guggenheim, who called the fight off a few minutes later.
“His experience proves it,” Noakes said of his opponent afterwards.
“He was a tougher fighter than I thought. But even when I threw punches, he didn’t really have an answer. It was a good learning fight. Everyone talks about these big guys but I’m still only 15 fights in. I still have a lot to learn and fights like this will really push me up.”
“This is a step closer to the world title and he is learning every day,” said coach Alan Smith.
Meanwhile, Noakes’ manager Francis Warren said: “There are obviously names we would like to pursue but he is in a great position. Opportunities will present themselves.” Denys Berinchyk said [WBO] world title and that seemed like the natural path to take when it came up. We’re in no rush.”
