Italian super welterweight contender Orlando Fiordigiglio (25-1; 12 KOs) thoroughly outpointed Brazilian co-challenger Carmelito De Jesus (18-5; 15 KOs) for the vacant IBF I/C title at 154 lbs this past Saturday night in Sequals, Italy.
De Jesus made a name for himself in the Italian boxing circles last year, stopping Stefano Castellucci for another IBF belt, and the 32-year-old Fiordigiglio was asked to restore the Italian pride and avenge his countryman’s loss.
Fiordigiglio was successful at his task: he started cautiously, as the Brazilian proved to be a genuine puncher during his first visit to Italy, but he slowly took control of the bout through a decent jab and a well-paced activity.
The Italian champ punctuated his win with a big final round, but De Jesus was able to make it on his feet at the final bell: scores were 116-112 and 117-111 twice for Fiordigiglio.
The fight took place during the festivities for the “Primo Carnera Trophy”, as the Italian heavyweight champ Carnera actually hailed from the town of Sequals, and about fifteen hundred fans showed up in the main square of the town to attend the live show.
On the undercard, rising cruiserweight Fabio Turchi (7-0; 6 Kos) stopped journeyman Slobodan Culum (11-19; 8 Kos) of Serbia in the opening round. Boxe Loreni promoted, with Rai Sport 1 televising in Italy.
