John Laryea loses to Adrian Robledo in ‘frustrating’ performance
Things did not go according to plan for Ghanaian boxer John ‘Expensive Boxer’ Laryea.
The 24-year-old suffered his first professional defeat at the hands of Argentine Adrian Robledo by way of disqualification in the 9th round.
The referee,Janny Guzman, stopped the fight after Laryea committed multiple fouls across 9 rounds.
Laryea travelled into Argentina with the hopes of coming home with the NABA featherweight title, a WBA top-15 ranking and potential world title shot. However, the results of his bout tell a different story.
In the first round, Laryea looked poised and ready to complete a 12-round fight if need be. He started the round strong, out striking Robledo and controlling the fight behind his jab. The next few rounds were more back and forth, yet competitive.
In the fourth round, however, Laryea lost his composure. The measured boxer in the first three rounds had quickly become wild and erratic.
The tide changed in the fifth round when Laryea suffered a knockout down. Things went downhill from there.
Despite a point deduction for head butting in the seventh round, Laryea’s unsportsmanlike conduct didn’t stop.
The referee intervened and ended the match after Laryea landed a low blow on Robledo in the ninth round.
It is unclear what caused Laryea to fight out of character, especially in such an important fight with world title implications.
Fan Reaction
The bout was televised live on TV3 as well as in group venues across Accra. One of such venues was at the Bukom Park, where scores of fans gathered to watch Laryea in action.
A lot of fans were let down by his performances and had some words to say.
“I’m very disappointed because this is not the John Laryea I know” said one fan who was present.
Another said, “I was not expecting this from him. He can do better”.
It’s no surprise that many fans have echoed their disappointment. Before this loss, Laryea was touted as one of Ghana’s world title hopes. He held the IBF, WBO Africa and national titles and was a fan-favourite anytime he fought.
Laryea releases statement
John Laryea released a statement shortly after the bout, apologising to his team and fans for his performance. The press release stated:
“I take full responsibility for my disqualification and I want to apologize to everyone I have disappointed with my actions and the outcome of the fight. I respect the sport of boxing and I accept the result with full grace. A single setback does not define a career it only sharpens the determination to grow.”
For now, Laryea will need to take some time off to reflect on his performance.
There’s no question John Laryea still has the ability to reach the pinnacle of the featherweight division, but his reputation has been somewhat tarnished by this fight.