Callum Simpson delivered a powerful performance at Oakwell Stadium in his hometown of Barnsley, defeating Zak Chelli to win the British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles by unanimous decision, with scores of 118-111, 118-110, and 117-111.
The atmosphere was electric as the hometown crowd erupted in celebration when Simpson was declared the new champion after a hard-fought 12 rounds. He made an immediate impact on Chelli from the opening bell, stunning him late in the first round with a solid right hand that sent Chelli staggering back into the ropes, visibly hurt and looking to hold.
Simpson continued to apply pressure, landing a right uppercut as he pursued his opponent. His aggressive approach carried into the second round, where he utilized feints to keep Chelli off balance, delivering impactful shots to the head.
While Chelli is known for his forward-moving style, he struggled to take control of the fight and was often kept at bay by Simpson’s relentless offense. Although Chelli managed to land some hooks, it was Simpson who remained the more aggressive fighter.
Just before the end of the fourth round, Chelli scored a clean right hand that stopped Simpson momentarily. However, in the fifth round, Simpson’s pace dipped slightly, allowing Chelli to push him back during their exchanges.
Simpson countered Chelli’s right hook effectively but often found himself entangled in clinches. Ignoring the referee’s instructions to break, he landed a hard right to Chelli’s body. The Londoner absorbed the punch without complaint, sneaking in his own left hooks in return.
Despite Chelli attempting to pressure Simpson, the local favorite continued to launch two-handed attacks, forcing Chelli to retreat to the ropes. In the ninth round, Simpson maintained his momentum, seeking decisive right hands, and although Chelli landed a quick cross, Simpson reasserted his dominance.
As the final round approached, the crowd cheered Simpson on, urging him to fire heavy shots as Chelli backpedaled. Simpson landed a solid left straight, putting Chelli on the defensive. The champion switched his strategy, targeting Chelli’s body with hooks as the bout came to a close.
Even as Chelli tried to finish strong, it was clear he had not done enough to earn the victory. Simpson’s performance secured him the unanimous decision from all three judges.
After the fight, Simpson expressed his feelings, stating, “It was amazing. The main thing for me was to not let the occasion get to me. I made a lot of mistakes, but a win is a win. I’m nowhere near the finished article, but we’re well on our way. I want to prove I’m the best in this division. I want to win the British title outright. Once I’ve cleaned up domestically, then we’ll push on.”
Credit: Sky Sports
