Aussie ends years of heartache with ‘epic’ world title triumph
Sam Goodman has produced an “epic” victory in enemy territory, claiming the interim IBF super-bantamweight world title in Japan.
The tough Aussie underdog travelled abroad to face local star Ryosuke Nishida and had the Tokyo Dome crowd against him.
Sam Goodman celebrates his win. AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama
Godman started aggressively, but Nishida managed to claw back and was in control during the middle rounds of the 12-round fight.
Both fighters lost a point in a chaotic eighth round as things threatened to spill over, but Goodman maintained his composure.
Any potential adversity wasn’t going to stop Goodman, who dug deep and did enough in the eyes of the judges to claim a unanimous decision victory.
As the final scorecard of 114-111, 115-110, 116-109 was read out, Goodman erupted in celebration and was clearly overcome with emotion.
“I’m feeling unbelievable. This ain’t just mine, this is everyone’s,” he said.
“Nishida was a tough champion. He brought the best out of me. Japan has been so hospitable, I’d love to come back and fight again.”
Tim Tszyu lauded the “guts and passion” shown by Goodman, labelling it as “unbelievable” on the Kayo Sports broadcast, while Aussie boxing legend Danny Green couldn’t contain his excitement after the victory.
“What an epic performance. Wow ... Sammy Goodman was f---ing outstanding.”
Goodman (24-1) had been searching for world title glory for quite some time and was robbed of the opportunity to battle one of the world’s best pound-for-pound fighters, Naoya Inoue, on two separate occasions due to cuts in camp.
The 27-year-old fell short last year against Nick Ball for the WBA featherweight title, which remains the only blemish on his professional career record.
The victory on Sunday night should put Goodman back in the box-seat for a clash with Inoue, who holds all the gold in the 122-pound division.
