This past weekend showcased two major boxing events in New York. On Friday, Madison Square Garden hosted an all-women’s card featuring six title fights with 17 belts contested, an unprecedented number under a highly valued promotional banner.
The main event saw undisputed junior welterweight champion Katie Taylor secure a majority decision win over Amanda Serrano, maintaining her flawless record in their trilogy. Taylor delivered a masterful performance by controlling the fight’s pace and keeping Serrano at bay with strategic movement.
Other highlights from Friday’s card included Alycia Baumgardner, who retained her junior lightweight title but failed to impress Jennifer Miranda. Shadasia Green pulled off an upset against Savannah Marshall, the unified super middleweight champion, while late replacement Cherneka Johnson capitalized on her chance by stopping Shretta Metcalf via TKO to become the undisputed bantamweight champion.
On Saturday, at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson switched up his usual defensive style to a more aggressive approach, defeating previously undefeated power puncher William Zepeda by unanimous decision. Hamzah Sheeraz, in his super middleweight debut, knocked out Edgar Berlanga in the fifth round, moving closer to a major title fight. Subriel Matias went the distance for the first time, claiming the WBC Junior Welterweight title with a hard-fought decision over Alberto Puero.
Friday’s Report Card: Katie Taylor earned a B- for a controlled but less explosive fight. Amanda Serrano received a D due to a poor game plan that allowed Taylor to dominate. Alycia Baumgardner got a C for a cautious performance despite her recognized power. Shadasia Green scored a B, demonstrating grit and talent in a significant upset victory. Cherneka Johnson earned a B for seizing her late opportunity and making a strong impression.
Saturday’s Report Card: Shakur Stevenson impressed with an A for his tactical dominance over Zepeda. William Zepeda got a 100 for his relentless offensive style, despite losing. Hamzah Sheeraz earned an A for his knockout victory in his new weight class. Edgar Berlanga was marked F after his overconfidence led to an early defeat. Subriel Matias received a B- for winning a tough decision in his first full-length fight. Alberto Puero earned a C+ for a crafty but ultimately overpowered performance.
Fan Take: This weekend’s action in New York underscored the rising star power in both men’s and women’s boxing, highlighting the sport’s expanding depth and competitiveness. For fight fans, these results not only validate the skill and heart of current champions but also set the stage for thrilling matchups that could energize boxing’s future on a global scale.
