Anthony Yarde Beats Down, Stops Norbert Nemesapati

By Terence Dooley

London - Hackney's Anthony Yarde (175lbs) may have failed to hit the 175lb limit at the first time of asking yesterday, but the 26-year-old had no such problems tonight after landing often and hard against Budapest's Norbert Nemesapati (174lbs) in their scheduled 12-round WBO European and vacant Inter-Continental title fight.

Yarde beat Richard Barayani in a single round in July to raise the WBO's spurious European belt, he floored Nemesapati in twice in round two and the 22-year-old visitor, who took both Callum Smith and Anthony Dirrell into the sixth round before retiring, spent an utterly pointless third round retreating from the heavier artillery of his opponent before retiring in his corner to hand the win to Yarde, who progressed to 13-0 (12 KOs). Nemesapati goes home with a 25-7 (18 early) record.

Yarder recently decided not to meet Hosea Burton in an eliminator for the British title held by Frank Buglioni, which led to a lot criticism, but he believes he is on the right path. "It is still progression," he said. "The hard work is paying off.

"We made Frank a very big offer, but he didn't want it," said Warren. "I'm not going through the charade of fighting some guy who Buglioni knocked out. Frank is fighting Callum Johnson then Burton again next, if he wants the fight we'll do it."

"I had 12 amateur fights, this is my 13th professional fight, and look at who I am fighting," chimed Yarde.

"We are looking to improve each time," concluded Warren.