Greatest Boxing

Joshua Dethrones Martin in Dominant Second-Round Knockout

In a impressive display of power, Anthony Joshua captured the IBF heavyweight title by dismantling Charles Martin in just two rounds on April 9, 2016, at London’s O2 Arena. The young British sensation, who entered the ring as an undefeated Olympic gold medallist, showcased why he is one of the most feared punchers in the sport, claiming his 16th consecutive knockout victory and securing his place among the heavyweight elite.

The bout, which was highly anticipated by boxing fans, marked Joshua’s first world title shot. Martin, also undefeated, was making his first defence of the title he had won just three months prior. However, the American southpaw’s reign would prove to be one of the shortest in heavyweight history, lasting a mere 85 days.

From the opening bell, Joshua exuded confidence, patiently probing Martin with measured jabs. Martin, known for his unorthodox stance, struggled to find his rhythm, throwing few punches and landing even fewer. It quickly became evident that Joshua’s power would be the deciding factor. In the first round, Joshua’s sharp right hand began to find its mark, and by the end of the round, the champion appeared to be off balance, although replays showed he had tripped rather than been hurt by a punch.

The second round saw Joshua step up his aggression. As Martin tried to stand his ground, Joshua slipped a jab and unleashed a blistering right hand that sent the American crashing to the canvas. Martin managed to beat the count, but the writing was on the wall. Moments later, Joshua delivered an identical right hand, dropping Martin for the second time. This time, Martin could not recover, and referee Jean-Pierre Van Imschoot waved off the contest at 1:32 of the round.

With this victory, Joshua became the first British super-heavyweight Olympic champion to win a professional world heavyweight title, joining the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali and Lennox Lewis. The win also solidified his reputation as a knockout artist, with all of his victories coming by way of stoppage.

The boxing world now eagerly awaits Joshua’s next opponent, while Charles Martin, who entered the ring with the swagger of a champion, left humbled, but vowing to return.

This performance was a statement of intent from Joshua—a declaration that the new era of heavyweight boxing had truly begun.

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Filed under: Heavyweight - @ April 9, 2016 11:59 pm

Tags: Anthony Joshua, Charles Martin