Filip Hrgović overcame early adversity to secure one of the biggest wins of his career. Dropping David Adeleye en route to a unanimous decision victory and the successful defense of his WBO secondary heavyweight title.
Hrgović (19-1, 14 KOs) earned scores of 98-91, 99-90, and 99-90. Proving largely dominant despite suffering a nasty cut over his right eyelid in Round 2 from an Adeleye jab. The Croatian was cleared to continue after a ringside inspection and his trainer Abel Sanchez kept the wound under control for the remainder of the fight.
The turning point came in Round 8, when Hrgović landed a sharp straight right that floored Adeleye (14-2, 13 KOs). Adeleye rallied with a flurry of punches but faded as Hrgović closed the round strong and pressed forward to the final bell.
Statistically, the gap was wide. According to CompuBox, Hrgović outlanded Adeleye 228 to 92 in total punches and 169 to 47 in power shots. His steady pressure and volume left Adeleye struggling to create consistent offense.
The victory marks Hrgović’s second straight win since his June 2024 stoppage loss to former heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois, keeping him in the thick of the heavyweight title picture.
Still lurking in the heavyweight division
Filip Hrgović threw his hat back into contention for the heavyweight division with a decisive win over David Adeleye. Reminding fans and rivals that he remains a serious force. Despite suffering a cut over his right eye in the second round, Hrgović showcased resilience and discipline, pressing forward with constant pressure and heavy volume. But to be looked at a serious contender, he’s going to have to tune up a little bit more. But today was a great win for him and without a doubt he’s knocking on the door for another title shot.
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
