Quartermaine vs. Bateson: 2024 Boxing Headliner Spills into 2025

Dec 9, 2024 at 5:00 AM
The headline fight of GBM's final 2024 event was a spectacle that could potentially carry over as the opening show's headline fight in 2025. The blood-soaked main event between Danny Quartermaine and Jack Bateson ended in the second round due to a doctor's stoppage triggered by severe cuts on both competitors. An accidental clash of heads was the main culprit, leaving Bateson with a deep scalp wound and Quartermaine with a sizable gash above his left eye. Referee Howard Foster's shirt, quickly stained with blood, served as a grim reminder of the brief yet brutal action.

Key Moments and Aftermath

There were few definite conclusions from this short-lived encounter. Both fighters appeared evenly matched and ready for a classic showdown. Since the result was a Technical Draw, Quartermaine retained his IBF and WBO European Super-Featherweight titles and will defend them in a 2025 rematch. GBM promoter Izzy Asif stated, "We have to see this again. We'll arrange the fight for the new year. Both men wanted it badly. It's disappointing for everyone, but this is what can happen in boxing. It looked set to be a great fight. We'll see them back in the ring in 2025, and in the meantime, I'm pleased both fighters can return home safely for Christmas." Quartermaine added, "Of course this isn't how we planned for it to end, but these things happen, and we'll get it sorted next year." Bateson, equally disheartened, said, "I'm devastated. We're going to do it again. All respect to Danny, but now we have unfinished business, and we'll settle it next year." Bateson then invited Quartermaine to confirm their agreement by touching gloves, making the rematch almost certain once new contracts are signed.

Support Fights and Highlights

Remarkably, the chief support fight between Levi Giles and Qais Ashfaq also ended in a draw. Their ten-round battle, fought at a fast pace, won the admiration of fans and experts. Veteran commentator Adam Smith said during the Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Title Eliminator, "It feels like I'm watching a British title fight." With a Commonwealth title at stake, both men pushed their limits. Giles was relentless in his forward movement, while Ashfaq showcased clever back-foot boxing and fluid movement. In the early rounds, each had their moments of success, but by the sixth round, Ashfaq's energy started to wane. However, he remained elusive and recovered his stamina by boxing smart and limiting Giles' effectiveness. By the final bell, Ashfaq was trading on equal terms, although he absorbed some solid punches. While Giles seemed to have the edge in the action, the judges saw it as a dead even fight, scoring it 95-95 apiece.

Main Card Fights and Performances

On the main card, super-middleweight Taz Nadeem faced the seasoned Mexican veteran Fernando Valencia. Nadeem's early power gave the impression of a quick finish, but Valencia responded fiercely and engaged in four intense rounds before Nadeem secured a well-deserved victory. Promoter Asif said, "He's the most dangerous four-round fighter out there. Mexican fighters are known for their toughness, and Valencia absorbed serious punishment. I'm glad this went the distance to give Taz more experience." Also on the main card, Kieran Molloy put on a controlled and classy eight-round display to decisively outpoint Robin Zamora, confirming his status as one of Ireland's most discussed prospects. Amaar Akbar nearly stopped Mikhal Sovtus in their six-rounder. The gritty Ukrainian absorbed huge shots, including a powerful right hand that wrenched his head around. Yet he refused to give up and pressed forward, eventually losing on points instead of by stoppage. Nyall Berry kicked off the main card with an entertaining scrap against Tanzania's Tampela Maharusi and emerged victorious by a 58-56 margin after a back-and-forth affair.

Undercard Fights and Rising Stars

Leicester favorite Muhammed Ali had to deal with a determined Yin Caciendo from Spain, who aimed to upset the hometown fighter's plans. Ali sustained a cut over his right eye in the second round, giving Caciendo some temporary hope. But that was the peak of the Spaniard's effort, and Ali ultimately won comfortably. The undercard started with a promising young talent, Calvin Moyo, making his professional debut against the seasoned journeyman Paul Scaife. Moyo dominated all four rounds and won by a unanimous decision, starting his professional journey on a solid footing. The undercard concluded with a strong TKO finish from rising welterweight Ed Hardy, who gave an impressive performance before stopping Sean Jackson in the third round.