When Vijender Singh opted to turn pro, the Indian people looked at him with a gaze of scrutiny. Why would India’s prime hope at winning an Olympic medal in the sport of Boxing shatter the dreams of a billion people? He received criticism from all corners for his decision, but the time has now changed. Singh has delivered upon his promise of promoting pro-boxing in India and he achieved yet another milestone in the ring defending his WBO title for the first time. His win over former champion Francis Cheka with another knock-out certainly earns him praise as a “KO-King”. He stands tall in the squared ring with a record of 8-0.

Cautious start to the bout pays off

Just like his amateur days, Vijender Singh began on a highly cautious note against the much experienced Francis Cheka. The Tanzanian was believed to be the toughest challenge to be faced by the reigning champion in his short career span so far. He fought seven times and won all of them, six of those through knock-out.

The Indian took his time as he ducked a few punches, in search of the narrow gap between Cheka’s arm and his head. Vijender’s lengthy reach helped him land a few jabs in the opening round while still being highly cautious in his movement and attack. The second round saw a swap in role as Vijender became the aggressor and began to find his rhythm. Having landed a strong right hand on his opponent’s cheek the Indian stood and stomped his feet to up the tempo. He followed it up with a few more strong body blows to make the round his.

The pressure was high and the Indian pugilist did not want to be caught off-guard against the veteran. Cheka’s numbers back him well with 32 wins out of 43 bouts he sure was not an easy opponent.  The Tanzanian had hyped his prospect and promise warning to “kill” Vijender in the ring. However, those words just remained words from the mouth of a “trash talker”, as Vijender Singh silenced the Tanzanian in the 3rd round with a powerful jab.

The rattled Tanzanian asked the referee to stop the fight and it was a successful Title defense for the Indian.

And still the champ is… Vijender Singh

With a strong performance against one of the best in the weight category Vijender Singh continues to prove his mettle in the sport. In a bout that was believed to go the distance, it had ended rather quickly. All it took for the champ to defend his title were just three rounds of fight. The first round a cautious one, the second as the aggressor and the third that dealt the final blow.

Vijender has the personality to pack a punch. But with bouts held several months apart, he largely remains out of sight and out of mind training and gearing up for his next rival. But the champ with the “iron fists” is sure to rise and give India many new great memories in the sport. Though it may be a little early to announce him as the “King of Knock-outs” due to his short career so far, but he sure is the closest to anyone that can be called so.

Image Courtesy: News18