Vitali Klitschko led on all three scorecards when Lennox Lewis defended his heavyweight titles in one of boxing’s most controversial stoppages on June 21, 2003. Klitschko entered the fight as a significant underdog, despite having a record of 32-1 and 31 knockouts.

From the first bell, Klitschko exceeded expectations.

Klitschko won the first two rounds on all three judges’ scorecards, and in the second he opened a cut under Lewis’ left eye.

In the second round, he landed demanding right hands that opened a cut under Lewis’ left eye and appeared to briefly shake the champion. Lewis responded in the third round with a powerful right hand that created a deep cut above Klitschko’s left eye. The wound ultimately became the defining moment of the fight.

Despite the cut, Klitschko stayed in the fight and won the fourth round on all three scorecards. However, the injury above his left eye continued to worsen as Lewis landed more spotless punches.

After the sixth round, ring doctor Dr. Paul Wallace examined the cut and informed referee Lou Moret that Klitschko could not continue.

When the fight was stopped after six rounds, Klitschko was leading 58-56 on all three scorecards.

Because the injury was caused by punches, Lewis was awarded a technical knockout victory in the sixth round.

Although Lewis initially expressed interest in meeting Klitschko again later that year, the rematch never took place. Lewis announced his retirement in February 2004, ending his Hall of Fame career with a record of 41-2-1.

For Klitschko, the performance changed his reputation. Less than a year later, he won the WBC heavyweight title by stopping Corrie Sanders and began the championship fight that would define his career.

DAZN’s upcoming Harlem Eubank vs David Papot event will introduce a range of up-to-date technologies aimed at enhancing the viewing experience both inside and outside London’s Copper Box Arena.

This combat sports-specific technology provides fans with real-time performance analysis measuring the power, speed, combinations and fatigue of both fighters when they start fighting on July 18.

Such data will be presented on Copper Box screens during the 12-round welterweight bout, while DAZN viewers will be able to enjoy the AI-personalized broadcast from the comfort of their homes.

Fans can also watch Matrix-style volumetric replays, which allow highlight shots to be viewed from any angle, providing a full 360-degree perspective of the action.

All of this is set to be brought to market by Gladius, whose creative digital gum shield technology aims to reveal the exact impact points and force of each impact.

Additionally, the company aims to further enhance the overall fan experience with an AI audio system designed to deliver crystal-clear sounds throughout the Copper Box Arena.

In a press release, Gladius CEO Oliver Hickey said the technology will radically change the way we consume combat sports.

“This is the beginning of a up-to-date era in combat sports. Gladius creates a single, trusted source of truth by intelligently combining video, volumetric capture, audio and wearable sensors.

“On July 18, fans will see the power, speed and power of every hit in real time with Matrix-style volumetric replays and insights that turn raw action into compelling understanding.

“We believe we are building the ultimate infrastructure for the future of sports.”

Regardless of the technology used, Eubank must continue to focus on Papota, who is out defeat on points to former world champion Liam Paro.

During the gala, which is a joint promotion of MF Pro and Neilson Boxing, Kieran Molloy and Sean Noakes will fight in another intriguing welterweight fight.

Turki Alalshikh says no decision has been made yet on where the long-discussed fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will take place, rejecting recent reports that suggested a venue had already been decided.

“So far I haven’t decided where the fight will take place and I will cooperate with me, some people are making up stories about it,” Turki wrote on Twitter social media.

“If you want to know the facts, take it from me or the ring. If you want to waste your time, listen to others.”

Responding to speculations, Turki also pointed to his achievements.

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Last updated: 21/06/2026 at 11:09