By Johnny Walker
Russia’s Denis Lebedev knocked out challenger Shawn Cox today in the second round to retain his interim WBA cruiserweight world title at Crocus City Hall, Myakinino, Russia.
Lebedev (24-1, 18 KOs) was caught early in round one by a left cross to the chin from the big-punching fighter from Barbados. The Russian was knocked back on his heels, but recovered well and fought back strongly to even up the round.
That was pretty much it for Cox (16-2, 15 KOs), who was completely outclassed by Lebedev in round two, with the Russian scoring almost at will.
A hard left cross to the chin ended this battle of southpaws at 2:40 of round two, with referee Giuseppe Quartarone counting Cox out.