A small show in the UK delivered big entertainment as not one, but two highly-touted prospects were stopped by journeymen.
Last night in York Hall, London, Zak Chelli claimed the vacant British light-heavyweight title with a win over 5-2 Adam Hepple.
Chelli moved to the division after being beaten by Callum Simpson in his last fight at super-middleweight.
Despite the title win, the excitement from the card came mostly from the undercard, in which two prospects slated for great things faced devastating losses.
Elliot Elimasi was sent out of the ring by journeyman opponent
On the undercard, Jack Oliphant, a 2-1 prospect who had already been stopped by one journeyman, was stunned by a left hook from 8-59-3 Kristaps Zulgis in the very first round.
Oliphant made it to his feet but was clearly unable to continue, and the bout was waved off in favor of the journeyman.
This was actually the second major upset of the night, but it was the first that garnered much attention.
Elliot Elimasi, an impressive amateur who won six London tournaments, an international tournament, the Capital Cup and Nationals, was signed by Queensberry in 2024.
In his debut, Elimasi scored a KO over his 10-6 opponent, before winning his next fight on points. He looked set to join the ranks of rising prospects like Giorgio Visioli, who sparred Curmel Moton, and Moses Itauma, who will now fight Dillian Whyte.
Last night, though, the 2-0 Elimasi faced 1-2-2 Javier Santana.
In the fourth round, Elimasi looked worse for wear, and was visibly slowing down and taking more shots. The fight was waved off, but Elimasi fell to the canvas and through the ropes shortly after.
He left on his feet, but took his first loss, by devastating KO.
Elliot Elimasi’s lived up to his nickname for all the wrong reasons
Ahead of his pro career, Elimasi spoke to Frank Warren‘s Queensberry regarding his ambitions and accolades.
“The name I was given in the amateurs was ‘Main Event’ because I am known to be the main event when I box. It is the name I was given and I live up to it, so I am definitely going to keep it.”
Whilst Elimasi may still go on to do all he hopes to, last night saw the British prospect become the main event of the card as a result of the scary knockout loss.
Elimasi appeared to be in good health as he left the venue.