## Matsumoto Wins WBA 105lb Title After Shocking Fight Stoppage
Ryusei Matsumoto (7-0, 4 KOs) is the new WBA minimumweight champion after a technical decision victory over Yuni Takada (16-9-3, 6 KOs) on Sunday at the IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan. The fight ended abruptly in the fifth round due too an accidental clash of heads.
Matsumoto, the #2 contender for the vacant title, employed a southpaw stance and dictated the pace early, utilizing quick jabs and attempting to control the distance. Takada fought cautiously, landing few punches through the first four rounds. Judges favored Matsumoto on the scorecards, though the bout remained closely contested.
The fight concluded at 1:26 of the fifth round when an accidental headbutt caused Takada to fall to the canvas. Unable to continue, the fight was halted and sent to the judges. All three Japanese judges scored the fight in Matsumoto’s favor: two cards read 50-45, and one read 50-46, resulting in a unanimous technical decision.
The unusual finish, occurring before either fighter landed a meaningful blow, led to Takada being stretchered from the ring. He later received medical attention and was transported to a nearby hospital. He regained consciousness and expressed willingness for a rematch in a post-fight interview.
WBA supervisor Jose Oliver Gomez of Panama oversaw the decision-making process, with WBA president Gilberto Jesus mendoza present at the arena. Referee Koji Tanaka followed protocol in stopping the fight and requesting an official ruling.
Promoter Ohashi Promotions, alongside Teiken Promotions, lauded Matsumoto’s performance and his achievement as a world champion. The win elevates Matsumoto in the WBA rankings and establishes him as a promising talent in the minimumweight division. Boxing analysts have noted the rarity of title fights ending in technical decisions, suggesting Matsumoto’s aggressive style and clean punches contributed to his beneficial position on the scorecards when the fight was stopped.
Matsumoto is expected to defend his title in the near future, with a potential rematch against Takada already being discussed as a possibility. The new champion is looking forward to defending his belt both in Japan and internationally.
Source: Fight News