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Saturday, May 15, 2010

Katsidis TKO's Mitchell

Michael Katsidis (27-2, 22 KO's) stopped previously unbeaten Kevin Mitchell (31-1, 23 KO's) at 1:57 of the 3rd round to retain his interim WBO lightweight title.

Katsidis, 29, applied heavy pressure from the opening bell, scoring with consecutive left hooks in round one. Still, Mitchell controlled the pace of the round, circling and unleashing a sharp left jab.

In round two, Mitchell, 25, struck Katsidis early with a left hook followed by consecutive right - left combinations. However, Katsidis closed the gap, landing a series of left hooks and overhand rights, as Mitchell's back was pressed against the ropes. Toward the end of the round, Mitchell caught Katsidis with a crisp, counter left hook to the head.

Katsidis hammered and dazed Mitchell with a powerful left hook to the head in round three. Then, Katsidis landed a barrage of punches, as Mitchell was on shaky legs. Next, Mitchell threw and landed a left uppercut - left hook combination. After that, Katsidis stunned Mitchell again, connecting with a massive left hook. Katsidis went on to throw multiple shots. As Mitchell momentarily turned away, Katsidis landed a crushing overhand right, which prompted referee Dave Parris to stop the bout.

"I feel I am the best I ever been," Katsidis declared. "I'm enjoying my time here. 20,000 people are screaming to support the sport I love, regardless of who they are cheering for."

Mitchell feels he will be able to overcome his first professional defeat.

"I made a mistake and I paid for it," stated Mitchell. "He landed a big shot, but I'll be back in the summer."

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