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Coyle Defeats Todd For NABA Title In Orlando, FL
Connor “The Kid” Coyle (16-0, 7 KO’s) captured the NABA
middleweight title after winning a spirited split decision
against Atlanta, GA’s Antonio Todd (13-6, 7 KO’s) Saturday
evening at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL.
Broadcast live on the Bally Sports Network, Coyle controlled
the early rounds by outworking Todd. Coyle found a home for
crisp right hands and left hooks but Todd displayed a solid
chin.
Todd, who was coming off a career best victory against top
10 rated Hugo Centeno in January, provided a tough test for
Coyle and had his moments during this entertaining ten round
contest. Fighting out of the Philly Shell defensive style,
Todd worked behind a solid jab and his movement created
challenges for Coyle.
In the tenth round, Todd buzzed Coyle with a good shot and
looked for the knockout but Coyle recovered and battled
back. After the final bell, the crowd provided a round of
applause for both fighters.
Judge Alexander Levin’s scorecard of 96-94 for Todd was
overruled by tallies of 97-93 and 96-94 in favor of Coyle.
“Todd was an awkward fighter but that’s what we were
expecting,” said Coyle, who hails from Derry, Ireland and
fights out of Pinellas Park, FL. “This fight was a great
experience against an opponent with a tricky style. He’d
give a lot of good fighters trouble with his movement and
ring smarts. With that said, I controlled the early rounds
and pressed the fight as much as I could. I thought for sure
we won the fight seven rounds to three or maybe 6-4 so the
(scorecard for Todd) really surprised me.”
Coyle’s promoter, Jody Caliguire of Firefist Boxing
Promotions, was proud of his fighter for earning the
hard-fought victory.
“Winning the NABA title and earning a ranking in the top 10
is a big move for his career. Connor’s now 16-0 and has a
great team behind him. We’re looking forward to bigger
opportunities in the near future.”
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