Andy Lee suffered the first defeat of his career in a shocking result.
At the start of his professional journey, the Irishman looked nothing short of phenomenal, showcasing thunderous power and excellent ringcraft, en route to compiling an impressive 15-0 record.
Fighting out of the Kronk Gym under the legendary Emanuel Steward, it looked as if Lee would be a world champion in no time.
However, in a moment of madness, he was stopped by a surprise fighter.
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Andy Lee got finished by Brian Vera in a big upset
On March 21, 2008, Andy Lee went to war with Brian Vera at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Montville, Connecticut, USA.
Going into the contest, the American was expected to serve as little more than a learning fight for the prospect. However, the reality proved to be anything but.
As expected, Lee came out of the blocks fast, dropping his opponent with a massive left hand.
However, rather than succumbing to the same fate as so many of the power puncher’s previous opponents, Vera got up and bit down on his gumshield.
As the rounds rolled on, the warrior began to apply relentless pressure, slowly but surely wearing the favorite out.
By the seventh segment, Lee was in a lot of trouble, with his opponent landing big shots.
Following a massive right hand, the referee jumped in, awarding Vera a monstrous win.
The pair rematched later that year, with Lee earning his revenge on points.
Vera eventually retired with a record of 28-17.
Andy Lee won his world title with a comeback victory
While suffering a tough defeat in the early portion of his career wasn’t ideal, Lee wasn’t going to let it define him.
More impressively, after losing to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in his maiden attempt at a world title, the heavy hitter returned to the drawing board and plotted his way back to another shot.
In his second attempt at claiming the throne, the warrior finally made his dream come true.
On a night he’ll never forget, Andy Lee produced a huge knockout to become world champion.