LAS VEGAS (AP) — Beibut Shumenov retained his WBA and IBA light heavyweight titles by stopping Danny Santiago in the ninth round Friday night.
Shumenov hurt Santiago with a quick combination that backed him into the ropes. Shumenov quickly took advantage landing a number of power shots that forced the referee to jump in and stop the fight 44 seconds into the round.
Shumenov dominated the entire bout, landing power shots to the head and body at will. Shumenov’s effective jab and straight right lead were too much for the overmatched Santiago.
This was Shumenov’s third consecutive title defense since becoming the fastest boxer to win a major title (10 fights). He improved his record to 12-1 with eight knockouts.
Santiago fell to 31-5-1, including 0-3 in title fights.
