By By Brinsley Bailey: British and Commonwealth Champion, Nathan Cleverly (19-0, 9 KOs), looked absolutely fantastic in his victory over Antonio Brancalion (32-8) for the European Light-Heavyweight title. This fight made Cleverly look like a seasoned ring veteran rather than a young 23 year-old and he clearly demonstrated that he was suited to this level of competition. Although Cleverly mentioned during the pre-fight build up, his frustration at the fight being postponed in December & January, he was methodical and mature in his approach throughout the fight. In every round, Cleverly showed flashy combinations, lightning hand speed and astounding accuracy as he landed time and time again before stopping Brancalion in the fifth round.

Before the fight, many fans and commentators recognised this as a big step up for Cleverly as he was taking a huge leap in class by fighting two-time European challenger Brancalion. However, many recognised Cleverly to be the favourite as he was on home soil and had some notable victories in his last five fights, all of which coming by way of knockout.

In the first round the young Welshman started aggressively, throwing single pot shots with the intention of feeling out his opponent rather than hurting him. Brancalion responded in kind and tried to match Cleverly’s work-rate. Although Cleverly’s work wasn’t as tidy as we have seen in previous fights, he was busy throughout an won the round with ease.

The second and third rounds demonstrated much of the same as Cleverly began to stalk his man by dominating the centre of the ring as Brancalion was relegated to sticking the jab from the outside. Although Cleverly did get caught on occasion by the Italian’s left hook, he never appeared to be in trouble his reflexes appeared to be on top form as he dodged and slipped many of Brancalion’s attacks.

The fourth round was the real turning point in the fight as Cleverly began to mix his shots well, landing to the body and head with much joy. From the outset of the round, Cleverly caught Brancalion with an excellent right hand over the top that stiffened the legs of the Italian. Cleverly matched this success again at the end of the round with another well timed right hand, knocking the Italian to the canvas. Brancalion was given the mandatory eight-count before being sent to his corner as his knockdown coincided with the end of the fourth round.

Cleverly started the fifth how he ended the previous round and hunted his opponent around the ring. A quality left-right combination stunned Brancalion as he was punished again by Cleverly for having a low left guard. The young Welshman then finished in style with a barrage of shots forcing the French official, Jean-Louis Legland, to step in with a well timed stoppage.

Cleverly stated after the fight “This was a more mature performance, I took my time in this fight…My power has progressed and I’m maturing now.”The new European Champion now looks set to defend his new title twice more this year before challenging for World honours in early 2011.