Callum Simpson Triumphs Over Zak Chelli to Win British and Commonwealth Titles
Callum Simpson Triumphs Over Zak Chelli in Hometown Victory to Claim British and Commonwealth Super-Middleweight Titles
Callum Simpson Triumphs Over Zak Chelli to Win British and Commonwealth Titles Callum Simpson delivered a performance of relentless aggression to secure the British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles with a unanimous decision victory over Zak Chelli. The judges scored the bout 118-111, 118-110, and 117-111 at Oakwell Stadium in Barnsley, Simpson’s hometown.
Simpson’s hometown crowd erupted as he was announced as “the new” champion after 12 intense rounds. He made an immediate impact, staggering Chelli with a powerful right hand late in the first round, causing the Londoner to stumble into the ropes and seek to hold.
Simpson continued to press forward, landing a decisive right uppercut. The momentum was clearly on Simpson’s side as he dominated the early rounds, using feints and sharp punches to control the fight. Despite a strong fourth-round right hook from Chelli that briefly paused Simpson, the Yorkshireman maintained his aggression and kept Chelli on the defensive.
The pace slowed slightly in the fifth round as Chelli managed to push Simpson back temporarily. However, Simpson quickly regained control, consistently applying pressure and landing effective combinations. By the ninth round, Simpson was driving Chelli into the ropes with powerful shots, while the challenger struggled to respond.
As the final round approached, Simpson’s energy and determination were palpable. He continued to land hard, flush shots and focused on attacking Chelli’s body. Chelli, under constant pressure, attempted to clinch and counter but was unable to mount a significant comeback.
At the final bell, Chelli’s expression revealed the reality of the fight’s outcome. Simpson’s victory was confirmed by all three judges, marking a significant achievement in his career.
In his post-fight remarks, Simpson acknowledged his mistakes but was proud of the win. “It was amazing. The main thing for me was to not let the occasion get to me,” he said. “I’m nowhere near the finished article, but we’re well on our way. I want to prove I’m the best in this division and win the British title outright. Once I’ve cleaned up domestically, then we’ll push on.