Too quick, too clever, too good.
Josh Kelly is on the world stage – and how.
The Sunderland star produced an absolute masterclass to beat Carlos Molina to lift the WBA international welterweight title in Cardiff.
Kelly dominated from start to finish against the tough former IBF world light-middleweight champ in the second championship bout of the Anthony Joshua-Joseph Parker undercard.
The 24-year-old took the decision with all three judges by some distance – 98-92 (twice) and 99-91.
On the evidence of this 30-odd minutes, Kelly’s wait for an even bigger title might not be far away, given the manner of his victory here.
Molina arrived in the Welsh capital with the pedigree – he had boxed as many title fights as ‘Pretty Boy’ had taken part in career bouts.
However, Kelly looked the class act in the ring, constantly dazzling the 34-year-old.
Round one was a feeling out operation but, thereafter, Kelly was simply unstoppable.
Molina is a boxer who does not lack resilience but he could not live with the movement of the ex-Sunderland and Hartlepool United Academy footballer.
Kelly’s hand speed was as sharp as his feet as he controlled the contest by landing with both fists.
Molina stuck at it and chucked a long right in the ninth but it was not going to trouble the 2016 Rio Olympian.
The pace may have eased but it was an amazing display for a gifted young man in his first 10-rounder and debut title assignment.
And the Wearsider passed it with flying colours with referee Terry O’Connor lifting his left hand as the verdict was delivered.
Words: Roy Kelly Pictures: Lawrence Lustig/ Matchroom
