Vergil Ortiz Jr. Triumphs in Return, Eyes Tszyu Despite Controversial Stoppage

Published by Jadi Mwendo

In an emphatic return to the ring, Vergil Ortiz Jr. marked his junior middleweight debut with a decisive first-round TKO victory over Frederick Lawson. The bout, held at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, saw Ortiz maintain his perfect knockout record, now standing at 20-0.

Ortiz, who had been out of action for nearly 18 months due to health issues, showcased his power early in the fight. A stiff power jab, which controlled the fight, hurt Lawson and marked the beginning of the end. Ortiz followed up with a barrage of unanswered shots. Referee Tony Weeks stepped in to halt the fight at 2:30 of the first round, a decision that sparked immediate controversy among the Vegas crowd and boxing fans on social media.

Despite the crowd’s reaction, Ortiz stood by the referee’s decision. “He wasn’t responding,” Ortiz explained, defending Weeks’ call to stop the fight. “I knew it was over. Fans want to see great knockouts, but I knew it was getting really bad for him, and I don’t think it was an early stoppage.”

Ortiz’s return was not just about the victory but also a statement of intent. The 25-year-old Texan, previously successful at welterweight, is now setting his sights on bigger challenges in the junior middleweight division. His performance in Las Vegas was a clear message to the division, especially to WBO junior middleweight champion Tim Tszyu.

Ortiz’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, praised his fighter’s performance and readiness to take on top-tier opponents, even suggesting that they are willing to travel to Australia for a potential showdown with Tszyu.

“This is my calling. This is what I live for.” Ortiz declared, eager for a world title shot and to prove himself against the best in the division.

The fight against Lawson was more than just a return; it was a reaffirmation of Ortiz’s status as a formidable force in boxing. With his health issues behind him and a renewed focus, Ortiz is poised to make a significant impact in the junior middleweight division.

With a perfect record and a clear vision for his future, Vergil Ortiz Jr. is not just back in the ring; he’s back with a purpose. The boxing world eagerly awaits his next move, as he continues to chase greatness in a sport he so passionately declares as his calling.