By Chisomo Phiri
Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba’s highly anticipated comeback was cut short last night in Moscow, Russia, as he suffered a second-round knockout at the hands of Russian boxer Alexei Papin.
The two were scheduled for an eight-round cruiserweight non-title bout, marking Chilemba’s return to the ring just two and a half months after retiring due to health issues.
Chilemba started the first round strong using the famous Floyd Mayweather shoulder roll defensive technique, potentially to protect his ribs, jaw and temple area.
However, Papin was relentless, penetrating Chilemba’s defense with a combination of well executed punches in the second round.
Towards the end of the second round, Papin managed to Break through Chilemba’s defense with a combination of strong punches, catching Chilemba off guard.
A devastating combination sent Chilemba crashing to the canvas unable to withstand Papin’s tireless attack.
Despite his valiant effort to get back to his feet, the referee waved off the fight, declaring Papin the winner by knockout in the second round.
The loss marks a setback for the celebrated South Africa-based Malawian boxer who now holds a record of 27 wins, 3 draws, and 10 losses in his professional career.
