By Joe Harrison
It only took Giovani Segura (17-0-1, 13 KOs) five rounds to conquer Jesus Martinez (17-5, 11 KOs) by a technical knockout to retain his NABF jr. flyweight title on Friday night at Cicero Stadium in Cicero, IL. From the opening bell, Segura and Martinez were swinging away, with Segura getting the better of the exchanges.
Throughout the beginning rounds, Segura was relentless as he continued to apply the pressure on Martinez, and was landing the more punishing blows. In the fifth round, Martinez could only cover up as he was bombarded with a storm of hooks and uppercuts from Segura. Martinez was punished for a good minute before referee John O’Brien stepped in to end the bout at 2:41 of the fifth round.
Also on the card, light heavyweight contender Tavoris Cloud (14-0, 13 KOs) stayed undefeated by knocking out Aaron Norwood (22-8, 11 KOs) in the second round of their scheduled eight-round bout. During the first round, Norwood looked petrified as Cloud constantly backed him up against the ropes, swinging at his body and head. Norwood could only defend himself and try to survive the round.
In the second round, Cloud’s power was clearly taking its toll on Norwood. Cloud connected with an uppercut that caused Norwood to sink to one knee, and he stayed down for the count. Final time was 2:03 of the second round.
After the fight, I was able to get together with Cloud and ask him a few questions.
BoxingScene.com – How do you feel about your performance tonight? Were you comfortable in the ring?
Tavoris Cloud – Yes, I was comfortable. I felt really good in the ring tonight. I’m in great shape. I will continue to train hard and get those wins.
BoxingScene.com – Were you ever hurt in the fight? Did you feel like you had complete control?
Tavoris Cloud – No, I was never hurt. I was in complete control. I was just taking it easy from the start. I just tried not to make any mistakes because Norwood is a veteran, and I didn’t want to give him any opportunities like that. So I was pacing myself. He kept leaning in with his head, so I threw the uppercut. That was the last punch of the fight, and then he couldn’t get back up.
BoxingScene.com – Is there anyone in particular that you would like to face next?
Tavoris Cloud – It doesn’t matter. I’ll just face whoever’s next. I want a tough opponent, someone who will take me to the next level.
BoxingScene.com – Who do you think is the best in your weight division today? Or do you feel that you are the best?
Tavoris Cloud – I’m saying me, because I would be wrong if I told you anyone else.
BoxingScene.com – Do you know when you’ll be fighting again?
Tavoris Cloud – I believe I’ll be fighting at Cicero Stadium again in April.
BoxingScene.com – Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fans out there?
Tavoris Cloud – Just keep watching. Keep watching. I’m a serious fighter, and I’m dedicated to what I do. I may not be the flashiest fighter in the world, but I’m going to give you what you came to see. I’m going to give you a good fight every time.