Leo Atang crashed through Fouad Shaili in one round, despite the journeyman being left unhappy with the stoppage.
19-year-old unbeaten British heavyweight prodigy Atang has made a positive start to life in the paid ranks.
Despite being forced to go the distance against a stubborn Viktar Charkou in his last outing, Atang was determined to blitz through another opponent.
He got a fourth run-out of the year so far on the undercard of Josh Padley vs Aqib Fiaz in Sheffield against 40-year-old Shaili.
The Frenchman was drafted in to bring little but stubborn resistance, and that he did for the opening exchanges.
But instantly as obviously expected, Atang started to go through the motions and unload some vicious shots.
Shaili was on his feet but was taking some big blows, albeit that had little impact on his balance or composure.
He was up against the ropes and as an artillery of shots rattled through the guard, the referee decided he had seen enough.
Shaili threw very little in return and was being battered with an array of whipping shots, and the official halted the action.
But the Frenchman boldly suggested the stoppage was far too early.
He was unhappy and complained to the referee, and then even dropped to the canvas and performed press-ups as if to show he was ready to continue.
Promoter Eddie Hearn even appeared to suggest the stoppage was early but the damage was being taken at will early on.
On his opponent’s antics and suggestion, Atang said: “They’re doing that to try and look better.
“If it was up to me I’d flatten them properly. When you’re not punching back, what do you expect?”
What’s next for Atang?
Atang is a superstar in the making, and has faced comparisons to Anthony Joshua.
He also appears on a collision course for fights with some future heavyweight top brass including Moses Itauma.
For now, Hearn expects him to get back out imminently, and has confirmed he will make his US debut before the end of 2026.
The Matchroom Boxing kingpin added: “Back in the ring asap.
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“It will probably be July or August, and I believe there is a little trip to America planned.
“You will see him make his debut this year.”
