Azim’s Stellar Performance Diminished by Point Deductions Against Lipinets

A Night of Mixed Emotions for Adam Azim

In a dazzling display of talent, Adam Azim secured his 13th consecutive professional victory by stopping Sergey Lipinets in the ninth round at the OVO Arena, Wembley. However, his dominant performance was marred by point deductions due to low blows, leading to a controversial conclusion to the match.

The 22-year-old Azim showcased superior skill, sending Lipinets to the canvas with a stunning counter-left hook in the third round. The Kazakh fighter, known for his toughness and experience, found himself overwhelmed as Azim's agility and precision became evident.

With a series of sharp uppercuts, Azim maintained control of the fight, forced Lipinets into defensive mode, and ultimately earned a stoppage after repeated blows left his opponent battered and bruised. Commenting after the fight, Azim remarked, "I was so patient. At the start, he was really dangerous. He's a big puncher. I've got so much respect for him."

Despite the stoppage victory, Azim faced back-to-back point deductions in the fourth and seventh rounds. Referee Steve Gray was compelled to intervene due to several unintentional low blows, which led to frustrations in the Lipinets camp. As accusations of unfairness surfaced, Lipinets’ trainer shouted, "It's not fair, ref!"

The match served not only as a showcase of Azim's abilities but also as a measure of his growth as a fighter. Former IBF titleholder Lipinets, aged 35, was viewed as a significant challenge for the promising boxer, who now holds the vacant IBO title—a belt once worn by legends like Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao.

Looking ahead, Azim expressed interest in facing fellow undefeated British fighter Dalton Smith, especially after their previous encounters in the media. "You better be watching, mate, because you ain't even that good, my friend," Azim taunted Smith, setting the stage for an exciting potential clash later this year.

For now, Azim plans to take a brief respite to observe the upcoming Islamic month of Ramadan, but fans are eager to see what the future holds for the young boxer in a highly competitive landscape of boxing.