Kazakhstan’s Astana Arlans progress to final
The British Lionhearts saw their participation in the World Series of Boxing (WSB) ended by a 3-2 defeat against Astana Arlans Kazakhstan at Bethnal Green’s York Hall on Thursday evening.
Wins for Tom Whittaker-Hart at light-heavyweight and a stoppage by Patrick Mailata in the super-heavyweight contest were not enough for the Lionhearts who lost the tie 7-3 on aggregate against a strong Kazhak team who will face Cuba or Columbia in the final.
The evening began with a superb bout at flyweight between WSB debutant Niall Farrell and Kazakhstan’s highly experienced Olzhas Sattibayev.
The British boxer delivered a polished and brave performance to push Sattibayev all the way and was unlucky to end up on the wrong side of a split decision.
Wins for Zajr Safiullin at lightweight and Aslanbek Shymbergenov at welterweight ensured the Arlans won the match and the tie, however it signaled a fightback by the Lionhearts.
At light-heavyweight, Liverpool’s Whittaker-Hart used his height and reach advantage to combat the come-forward style of Arman Rysbek and secure a well-earned first win in WSB.
Kiwi import Mailata ended the match and the season in style with a third -ound stoppage of Nursultan Amanzhilov to restore some home team pride and ensure the match finished 3-2.
The British Lionhearts franchise is supported by UK Sport and more details on the Lionhearts and WSB are available at worldseriesboxing.com and by following the team on twitter at @Brit_Lionhearts.
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