Nick Ball finally clinched a featherweight title after an intense battle against Raymond Ford. Ball emerged victorious via split decision with all three judges scoring the fight 115-113 – two in favor of Ball and one for Ford. The electrifying contest took place at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday evening.
Ball's Redemption
Ball (20-0-1, 11 KOs), ranked No. 4 at 126 pounds, had previously been denied the WBC featherweight title in a controversial draw against Rey Vargas three months earlier at the same venue. Determined not to let history repeat itself, Ball came out strong in this title fight. Ford (15-0-1, 8 KOs), ranked No. 7 at 126 pounds, acknowledged after the match that he conceded the early rounds to Ball and regretted not heeding his corner’s advice.
The Fight Breakdown
Ford started with a solid body attack, but Ball countered effectively, using his power to negate Ford's five-inch height advantage. Ford picked up the pace in the middle rounds, managing to cut Ball around his nose by the seventh round. Despite suffering a cut around his own left eye, Ford pressed on, using his long jab and left hand to gain ground in the tenth and eleventh rounds.
The final round saw both fighters trading heavy blows. Ball briefly stunned Ford, who quickly responded with an uppercut that hurt Ball. They continued to exchange punches fiercely until the final bell. Ultimately, Ball's aggression and early lead impressed two of the judges, earning him his first major professional title.
Aftermath and Future Prospects
Ford, although disappointed, accepted the decision without complaint. The Camden, New Jersey native admitted that making weight was increasingly challenging and hinted at moving up in weight classes. Ford’s victory over Otabek Kholmatov in March and his narrow loss to Ball are both contenders for the 2024 Fight of the Year, with Saturday's bout marking his first career defeat.
Points for Queensberry Promotions
Ball's victory contributed to Queensberry Promotions' 2-0 lead over Matchroom Boxing in their 5-vs-5 tournament. Decision wins are worth one point, while knockouts earn two points. Additionally, team captains receive double points for victories. Ball’s recent performances, including his win over former 122-pound titlist Isaac Dogboe last November, have significantly boosted his stock in the boxing world.
Nick Ball’s triumph over Raymond Ford solidifies his position as a top contender in the featherweight division and sets the stage for future high-stakes matchups.