Underdog stuns unbeaten favourite with amazing one-punch KO to record huge upset and become unexpected world champion
MASSIVE UNDERDOG Adrian Curiel produced a stunning upset to dethrone Sivenathi Nontshinga and become world champion.
He unleashed an incredible one-punch overhand right in Monte Carlo to be crowned the new IBF light-flyweight title.
The 24-year-old Nontshinga went into the showdown as a huge 1/8 favourite with bookies in what many considered to be a routine defence on Saturday.
But the previously 12-0 South African’s plans came crashing down in the second round as he was caught straight on the chin.
The champion instantly collapsed and fell through the ropes before lying unconscious on his back on the canvas.
Mexican Curiel, 24, had tasted defeat four times before this but now he is on the top of the world following the massive upset.
Speaking afterwards, he said: “It’s an absolute dream for me this victory.
“It’s super important for me and my family, it’s a victory for Mexico… I spoke to my mother and I said to her, no one’s going to beat me tonight.
“When I started at six years old, this was my dream, and I think someone is looking down on me from up there right now.”
Curiel has now secured his place amongst boxing’s other great upsets.
His countryman Andy Ruiz produced a shock in 2019 when he became heavyweight world champion by downing Anthony Joshua.
Although 42/1 outsider Buster Douglas’ famous victory over Mike Tyson in 1990 is still widely-considered the biggest upset ever in the sport.
Curiel’s win came prior to Joe Cordina’s successful IBF super featherweight title defence against America’s Edward Vazquez in the main event.
After a hard-fought battle, Cordina had his hand raised after getting the majority decision to stretch his record to 17-0.
He said: “It wasn’t my best performance, but it still got the job done.
“He didn’t hurt me at any point. I beat two champions back-to-back, come on man, you need to give me my flowers.”