Badou Jack and James DeGale Battled to a Draw in a Classic at Barclays Center

(Photo by Lauren Guillen – Double G Media)

Entering into this epic encounter, the build up was champion vs champion. That was indeed excactly what we got at Barclays Center. Badou Jack and James DeGale both put on a boxing clinic. The fight resulted in a draw. As a result of the decision, Jack retained the WBC super middleweight title and DeGale held on to the IBF super middleweight title.

At the press conference heading into the fight, both fighters were calm and confident, that each of them would deliver a victory. James DeGale was dominating from rounds 1-4, but then, Badou Jack made his adjustments and the momentum changed in the 5th round.

The final round was full of drama as Jack sent DeGale to the canvas for the first time in his career, but the WBC super middleweight champion was able to make it through all three minutes to put pressure on the judges that ultimately led to the decision.

Jack was looked so disappointed with the outcome, especially since his last fight ended with the same results.

DeGale has been nearly unstoppable in his career, only losing once in 25 fights after Saturday’s decision. He was defeated by Groves in May 2011 but has since responded with 13 wins (five via TKO).

To Jack’s credit, he should take great pleasure knowing he gave DeGale one hell of a fight. Jack also said after the fight he wouldn’t have a problem with a rematch but only at supper lightweight.

Undercards Didn’t Disappoint

Undefeated prospect Gervonta Davis (17-0, 16 KOs) graduated to contender with a star-making performance Saturday, stopping veteran champion Jose Pedraza (22-2, 12 KOs) of Puerto Rico in seven rounds. In winning Pedraza’s IBF super featherweight title belt, Davis becomes one of the youngest current division champion in boxing at age 22.

Women Boxing Is Alive and Well

Puerto Rican born featherweight world champion Amanda “The Real DeaL” Serrano of Brooklyn (31-1, 23 KOs) and former two-division champion Yazmin Rivas of Mexico (35-10-1, 10 KOs) proved women’s boxing is just as enjoyable to watch as the men with an all-action 10 round fight. Serrano wanted a knockout for her American network TV debut, but she settled for a strong unanimous decision. Judges scored the fight 99-91, 98-02, and 97-93.

Serrano was by far the stronger, more accurate puncher with good body work and a superior left hook. But give Rivas credit, she is strong and has an iron chin. She provides her own offense, but she doesn’t have enough power to stop someone like Serrano. The fight was entertaining and gave a great preview about what women boxers can do in the ring.