Boxing News
Joshua-Dubois: Vuong, Hamed, and Kongo Shine in Wembley Workouts
Joshua-Dubois: Vuong, Hamed, and Kongo Shine in Wembley Workouts
On September 18 at the OVO Arena, Wembley, fans were treated to three intriguing live workout fights as part of the Riyadh Season Wembley Stadium edition. These fights are a build-up to the highly anticipated Anthony Joshua vs. Daniel Dubois showdown on September 21 at Wembley Stadium. Fight fans worldwide can catch the action on DAZN PPV, TNT Sports PPV, PPV.com, and Sky Sports Box Office.
Joshua-Dubois Workout Fights: Strong Performances at the OVO Arena
Cameron Vuong vs. Joe Underwood Hughes Recap
Cameron Vuong (6-0, 3 KOs) impressed in his eight-round lightweight bout against Joe Underwood Hughes (8-4, 1 KO) winning 79-73 on Sean McAvoy’s scorecard. The opening round saw a strong start for Vuong as he showcased his quick feet and fast hands. The 22-year-old Blyth fighter – used his slick footwork to slide in and out of range easily. An uppercut in round two was undoubtedly the best moment for Hughes before Vuong established his dominance for the rest of the round.
A third round saw Vuong up the pace, landing an impressive variety of punches, drawing applause from the Ovo Arena. A strong right hand from Vuong made his opponent back off, but Hughes bravely fought back. The 22-year-old was in complete control at this point – drawing blood from the face of his opponent.
Read More: Anthony Joshua Teases Future Showdown with Fury or Usyk for Undisputed Glory
The next couple of rounds saw more dominance from “The One” as he varied his attacks impressively leaving his bloodied opponent perplexed. What impressed most in the final few rounds was the patience in Vuong’s work as he picked his attacks with spite and plenty of thought. A brave flurry in round seven and a good right hand in the final round showed just how brave Hughes is and that he is a capable opponent. There’s no doubt Cameron Vuong is one of the best prospects in British Boxing.
In the post-fight interview, Vuong said: “It was a massive opportunity.” He continued: “I’m happy to be here and I feel it’s where I belong.”
Aadam Hamed vs. Santiago Garces Recap
Aadam Hamed (3-0, 1 KO) impressed in his 4-round super lightweight bout against Santiago Garces (4-33-5, 2 KOs). It was an impressive sharp start from Hamed, who picked his punches well and threw with plenty of spite. Another dominant round, in the second for Hamed as he controlled the distance well moving in and out of distance, controlling the tempo.
Read More: Anthony Joshua Feels Sharper and Mentally Ready Ahead of Dubois Wembley Showdown
The third round saw Hamed continue feinting with his lead foot to try and tempt Garces out, but the Colombian was reluctant to engage much. The final round saw the Sheffield-born fighter in full control landing a lovely uppercut right near the bell, rocking his Colombian opponent. Judge Sean McAvoy scored the fight 40-36. It was impressive from the “Prince.” Could he emulate his dad?
In the post-fight interview, with his dad Prince Naseem Hamed watching on, he said: “It’s my third fight ever and I just feel like no one else is doing it like this. I’m blessed to be part of such a historic event at such a historic time. “
Chris Kongo vs. Jacob Quinn Recap
Chris Kongo (16-2, 7 KOs) defeated Jacob Quinn (8-5-1, 0 KOs) 59-55 in their six-round welterweight contest. The Bermondsey fighter started well, holding the centre of the ring and mixing his shots impressively. Quinn tried in the opening round to close the distance, but Kongo looked too sharp for his opponent. More of the same in the second round saw “2Slick” in control. He landed a beautiful right hand, which Quinn felt. It was complete control from “2Slick” after the opening two rounds.
Read More: Daniel Dubois’ Last Three Opponents: A Closer Look at His Recent Challenges
The third round saw Kongo continue to dominate, with Quinn only briefly able to close the distance and let his hands go, with the London fighter looking untroubled. Quinn increased the pressure in round four, landing some single shots, but the Bermondsey fighter ended the round strongly, varying his punches well. The fifth round saw the best punch of the fight from the Huddersfield native. Kongo landed a lovely right hook near the end of the round and looked in complete control. The resilience of Quinn saw him have some success in the final round, but the London fighter cruised through to the final bell and was awarded a comfortable yet underwhelming win by judge Sean McAvoy.
In the post-fight interview, “2Slick” was asked about being involved in AJ-Dubois fight week and said: “How can I not say yes to an opportunity like this?” Talking about what’s next for him, he said: “I want a big fight next.”
Freelance Writer and Digital Marketer, spending most of his time waiting for the Tyson Fury vs Usyk announcement. Also watches YouTube videos of Lennox Lewis fights on a daily basis.