Lawrence Okolie was expected to defend his world title with ease against David Light and although he won the majority of rounds, it wasn’t a performance to remember, as he retained his belt on points.
Okolie was aiming to send out a warning to the leading fighters at cruiserweight, the division he owns the WBO title in, and heavyweight, but it wasn’t his best outing as failed to get to grips with Light.
The New Zealander arrived in Britain with an unbeaten record, but although that ledger now has a blemish, he can take some credit for showing an admirable toughness.
Light frustrated Okolie in the fight’s first half, but he couldn’t resist the Brit’s attacks all night as he survived heavy onslaughts in the latter stages.
The final bell was something of a relief for Light, and those watching in the arena and at home, as a quiet contest lacking action failed to enhance the reputation of either man.
A dull affair was eventually settled by the ringside judges who all scored for Okolie 116-112, 119-108, and 117-110.
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