By Rob MaClean: Jermell Charlo (29-0, 14 KOs) delivered a stunning right hand to challenger Charles Hatley, retaining his WBC Super Welterweight title at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York via knockout in round 6. Charlo exhibited immense power, completely knocking out Hatley, in what was a one-sided contest. Charlo could likely have got the KO earlier in the fight, he scored a hard knockdown in round 3, but ultimately it was a solid display from the defending champion.
(Photo credit: Amanda Westcott/ SHOWTIME)
Charles Hatley was in the first round despite losing it, perhaps this was due to Charlo seeing what Hatley had to offer, feeling his power. Round two was much more dominant, Charlo landed a picture-perfect right hand on Hatley’s chin and sent him stumbling into the ropes at the end of the round.
Round 3 was more of the same. Jermell Charlo dropped Charles Hatley hard with an excellent one-two combination but failed to finish. He probably should have taken Hatley out at this stage, however it’s hard to criticize Charlo after such an impressive display. Round 5 Charlo was fairly inactive, he clearly won but it seemed he took the round off.
Round 5 was a jabbing masterclass. Charlo’s jabs to head and body were thrown with concussive power rocking Hatley back, it was extremely impressive. The fight was over early in round 6 as Charlo came out hunting, he landed the perfect right hand during an exchange. Throughout the fight Hatley showed little defence to Charlo’s right hand and clearly struggled with his power throughout.
Charlo was extremely impressive tonight. His jab was fantastic, his power was undoubtable and his defence and sharpness was perfect. It was a great exhibition fight for Charlo’s first defence and he defiantly showed the power of a top class fighter.