Dennis McCann emerged victorious against Brad Strand in the intensely watched British and Commonwealth title fight in Liverpool, solidifying his status as the British and Commonwealth super bantamweight champion.
McCann, boasting a now 15-0-1 record with 8 knockouts, displayed a dominant performance throughout the bout. On the other hand, 27-year-old Strand struggled to match his opponent's prowess, resulting in his loss by a wide unanimous decision. The judges scored the fight 118-111, 116-111, and 116-112 in favor of McCann.
The contest attracted additional attention after Liam Davies vacated the Lonsdale belt due to an upcoming match with Erik Robles. Adding to this intrigue was McCann's recent switch of trainers from Al Smith to Joe McNally following a draw against Inout Baluta.
The fight unfolded with McCann taking an aggressive stance from the first round, utilizing a wide stance and southpaw jab while Strand opted for a more observing defensive posture.
McCann significantly upped his aggression in the second round with feints, powerful left hands, and right hooks that visibly shook Strand who faced difficulty responding effectively.
In rounds three and four, Strand found his footing and attempted to gain center ring control but was continually met with patient yet punishing counterattacks from McCann.
As the fight progressed into rounds five and six, McCann showcased his skill through varied movements and angles making it difficult for Strand to mount any significant offense.
Although Strand showed resilience by attempting counterattacks in the eighth round and enjoying brief success in the eleventh where he managed to outland McCann forcing him on the back foot - his efforts were too little too late.
By then, McCann had already established clear dominance and coasted towards victory in the final rounds.
This win not only solidifies McCann’s standing as a key figure within the super bantamweight division but also marks an impressive milestone in his career leveraging adjustments made post-draw against Baluta. For Brad Strand, this defeat is undoubtedly a hard pill to swallow but serves as an essential learning curve against top-tier competition.
Despite attempts to counter in later rounds, Strand struggled to match McCann’s intensity and precision. The eighth round saw McCann continuing to press forward, exploiting gaps in Strand’s defense. Even as Strand outlanded McCann briefly in round eleven forcing him onto the back foot, it wasn't enough to change the outcome.
Ultimately, Dennis McCann was awarded a wide unanimous decision victory with judges scoring the bout 118-111, 116-111, and 116-112 in his favor. This win affirms McCann's position as both a British and Commonwealth super bantamweight champion, marking another significant milestone in his ascending boxing career.
As boxing fans continue to follow these athletes' careers closely, this match speaks volumes about strategic evolution and resilience within the sport—characteristics embodied by Dennis McCann's journey towards claiming victory at Liverpool.
Other results for today's Magnificent Seven Show:
