George Kambosos Jnr celebrated a successful return to the boxing ring with a unanimous win over fellow Australian Jake Wyllie at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. Despite the defeat, Wyllie emerged with a significant opportunity as Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn promised him a contract after the fight.
Wyllie stepped up to replace Daud Yordan on just five days’ notice, initially planning to attend the event as a spectator. Following the unexpected turn of events, he took on the former IBO lightweight champion, delivering a spirited performance. During the lead-up to the fight, Wyllie even inquired with Hearn about the possibility of a refund for his ticket, but post-fight he shifted his focus to securing the contract he was promised. “I tell you something better he can give me, where’s my contract?” he asked, to which Hearn assured him that he would indeed receive a contract from Matchroom Boxing.
Kambosos’ victory was hard-fought; he sustained a cut above his eye during the match but managed to secure the win with scorecards reading 117-111, 117-111, and 115-113. The fighter’s corner team did an excellent job controlling the bleeding, allowing him to maintain his focus and composure. Post-fight, Kambosos praised Wyllie’s toughness, stating, “It was a good war, we gave Sydney a good war.”
After his loss of the IBO title to Vasyl Lomachenko in May, Kambosos was keen to get back to winning ways. The fight primarily showcased Kambosos’ resilience and ability to adapt, and with further plans taking shape, Hearn mentioned a potential matchup against IBF world super lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins by June. Hearn stated that if Kambosos’ cut heals properly, they are on track to position him for a world championship bout in America, aiming for Kambosos to become a two-division world champion.
Despite the competitive nature of the fight, Wyllie received a standing ovation, highlighting his commendable effort and the respect he garnered from the crowd. The outcome marks a promising path for both fighters, with Kambosos looking to regain his championship status and Wyllie being presented with exciting new opportunities.