Adeleye Wins British Heavyweight Title by Stoppage
David Adeleye secured the vacant British heavyweight title with a sixth-round stoppage against Jeamie TKV on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. While Adeleye celebrated his victory, the outcome of the fight has been clouded by controversy, sparking debates across the boxing community.
The match featured two rising stars in the British heavyweight division. Jeamie TKV, 31, entered the ring with an 8-2 record, including five knockouts. David Adeleye, 28, had an impressive 14-1 record with 13 knockouts, positioning himself as a formidable contender for the title. Both fighters demonstrated their skills during the early rounds, trading punches and engaging in fierce exchanges.
The controversy began in the sixth round. Referee Ron Kearney called “break” twice during a clinch, instructing the fighters to separate. As Kearney pushed TKV’s gloves down to enforce the break, Adeleye seized the opportunity to land a decisive left hook, sending TKV to the canvas. Though TKV rose to his feet and continued fighting, he was knocked down again moments later, leading Kearney to stop the fight and award Adeleye the victory by TKO.
TKV’s team, led by promoter Ben Shalom of BOXXER, has fiercely challenged the referee’s conduct, arguing that Adeleye’s punch during the break was illegal. Shalom described the incident as “a disgrace” and announced plans to file a formal protest with the British Boxing Board of Control. In contrast, Adeleye’s promoter, Frank Warren, acknowledged the referee’s error and supported a review of the decision.
The boxing world is now divided over the implications of the referee’s actions. Fans and analysts alike are debating whether the result should be overturned or if a rematch should be ordered. As the British Boxing Board of Control prepares to review the case, the fight’s outcome remains in limbo, leaving questions about referee accountability and fair play in the sport.
For more information, visit Boxing News, Sky Sports, and Boxing Scene.
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
