Kris George surrenders Commonwealth title to Josh Kelly

KRIS George was brave and willing, but ultimately came undone.

The brave Australian entered the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle, England on the back of Lewis Ritson’s one round demolition of Paul Hyland Jr, looking to complete a replica performance.

However, after seven competitive rounds, George (now 14-2, 8 KOs) was saved from any further damage by trainer Craig Monagle after suffering two suspected broken hands.

Despite Kelly’s (now 7-0, 5 KOs) limited experience as as professional, it was clear that the former Olympian, who also successfully defended his WBA International regional bauble, had the advantage in almost every department.

The 24-year-old spent large patches of the fight with his arms firmly affixed to his waist, and used his jab to snap George’s head back on several occasions.

Having damaged his right-hand in the opening rounds, George was limited in his ability to throw his signature shot. However, the Toowoomba-resident persevered – landing two left-hooks that appeared to catch Kelly’s attention – until his lone hand also gave way in the sixth round.

With no tools at his disposal and facing what seemed to be an insurmountable lead on the scorecards, George was admirably withdrawn by his trainer, Craig Monagle.

“I thought it was good pressure,” said Kelly in a post-fight interview with Sky Sports.

“[But] I just need to clean up on a few things. I think I got a bit complacent and I got caught in spots. I did feel I was getting to him I took a few of his clean shots and nothing really fazed me.”

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