On March 15, 2025, at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball defended his title against Ireland's former IBF world super bantamweight champion TJ Doheny. The bout, which concluded with Ball winning by TKO at the end of the 10th round, was not only significant for its outcome but also fraught with controversy.
The match was charged from the start, fueled by the trash talk exchanged between the two boxers leading up to the fight. Ball, who previously referred to Doheny as a "quitter," aimed to showcase his skills and solidify his reputation. The backstory was particularly heated as Doheny faced Naoya Inoue last September, suffering defeat due to injury, and his rivalry with Ball simmered over.
From the get-go, both fighters engaged fiercely, with Ball trying to impose his aggressive style. Yet, it was the end of the first round when the atmosphere turned contentious. After the round's conclusion, Ball, frustrated by being clinched by Doheny, retaliated with a stomp to Doheny's lower body. This act caused immediate uproar; Doheny fell to the canvas, visibly pained, and the referee merely issued warnings. This act drew significant criticism, with many calling for proper penalties during the fight, as there were no deductions or disqualifications. Commenters online expressed outrage, dubbing Ball’s actions as unprofessional and unnecessary.
Despite the rocky start, Ball continued to press forward during the bout. The fight showcased Ball's relentless spirit as he dominated intervals with his powerhouse punches. Doheny, visibly injured and with swelling around his right eye, found it increasingly challenging to maintain pace against his opponent. By the 8th round, it was clear Ball's plan was effective, as he captured Doheny repeatedly.
Controversy dotted the evening, particularly as Ball received another mark against him when he threw Doheny down to the canvas, resulting in another point deduction. Yet, the session unfolded with the audience growing anxious as the fight wore on. By the 10th round, with both fighters nearing exhaustion, Ball cornered Doheny. His corner eventually signaled for the fight to stop, handing Ball his second successful title defense by TKO.
After the match, Ball reflected with pride, saying, "I’ve proved I can box, and I saw him tiring." Promoter Frank Warren, celebrating the night’s successes, declared, "Nick is the best featherweight boxer in the world." His affirmations showed strong belief not only in Ball’s abilities but also future potential matchups.
Looking forward, Warren hinted at significant matchups for Ball, particularly against Naoya, stating, "We want to move him toward a match with Naoya." This prospect arises from their contrasting paths within the boxing circuit, with Ball aiming for high-stakes encounters and unification bouts soon.
Along with the Alarming commentary about the night, fans took to social media. Many called for changes to rule enforcement, demanding stricter consequences in the ring to uphold sportsmanship. "Ball's actions should've led to immediate disqualification," lamented some followers.
The eventful night closed not only with Ball's victory but also with questions about future regulations within boxing. The halting ride to the championship for many boxers often showcases the delicate balance between fierce competition and the rules governing the sport. Ball now stands at the threshold of more significant challenges and opportunities faces as he eyes unification.
While the criticisms linger and the aftermath of the match resonates, the boxing world continues to watch and wait. Will Ball's next challenge bring redemption and stronger enforcement of rules, or will another controversy shadow the sport? The stage is set, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the answers.
