Savannah Marshall Edges Past Franchon Crews-Dezurn To Become The Undisputed World Super-Middleweight Champion
It was far from easy. It was far from pretty. But Savannah Marshall, at the second time of asking, is an undisputed champion of the world.
Marshall edged it on the cards, one judge couldn't split them. The remaining two judges scored it for Marshall. Scores of 95-95, 95-92 & 97-93 were enough for Franchon Crews-Dezurn to lose her grip on her undisputed baubles at the Manchester Arena on Saturday night.
The American fought as expected. And made it a highly uncomfortable evening for the British fighter. Both soaked up plenty in a fight that was fought in a terrific atmosphere. And spirit.
Crews-Dezurn sang the American National Anthem and probably used up two rounds of her gas tank in the process. Her efforts were booed. It was in truth, more pantomime than any real venom, but nevertheless, it is a tiresome ritual which never fails to disappoint this observer.
After an even enough first half of the contest, from ringside, I thought Marshall pulled away down the stretch to seal her victory beyond any reasonable doubt. It was close, you could easily make a case for the former champion winning three or four rounds, 7-3 or even 6-4 was more than reasonable and fair. But however you scored it, there was only one winner.
Marshall needed space, far too often she couldn't find it. When she did, her night was a lot more comfortable. Both ended up on the floor multiple times when the wrestling side of the fight took over. You can't deny it was beyond messy at times. But equally, it was an exciting affair and one that you couldn't take your eyes off. The vocal Marshall faithful never let up, bringing back memories of that historic and unforgettable evening last October at O2 Arena in London. Marshall couldn't send her fans home happy last time out. This time she obliged in that regard.
Her conqueror from last year was ringside cheering on her fellow American, and Claressa Shields will surely be in the future of Savannah Marshall once again.
Crews-Dezurn gave everything and will come again. She just found an opponent who had a little too much for her. But not by much. She can be immensely proud of her performance.
Marshall in victory will have eradicated many demons from that points defeat to Shields in London. Marshall wants revenge. There is every chance she will get her chance to do so before the year ends.
Photo Credit: Lawrence Lustig/Boxxer
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