There was disappointment for Irish boxing favourite Gary Spike O’Sullivan on Sunday night when he was outpointed by French puncher Sophiane Khati in a hugely entertaining middleweight contest in Castlebar.
The Cork fighter hadn’t fought since losing a WBA middleweight title fight to Erislandy Lara in New York in May 2022, and never hit the high spots against his impressive, long-levered opponent, who was awarded a score of 77-76.
Khati caused the Irishman trouble from the outset with his snappy jabs, which were increasingly finding their target. O’Sullivan looked to move forward into the eye of the storm in order to land his own power punches but Khati was elusive and well able to absorb punishment when it arrived.
At the midway point the large crowd knew O’Sullivan faced a serious challenge and they tried to rouse the popular puncher but despite their best efforts the magic they craved failed to arrive.
Khati grew in confidence and although the rounds were tight, it was obvious that the Frenchman was well positioned to win.
The seventh round involved O’Sullivan being on the front foot, but he didn’t land with the desired impact and Khati was never in real trouble.
O’Sullivan knew he had to pull out all the stops in the final round and went in search of the visiting fighter. He threw everything he had, but Khati was snappier and there was to be no dream finish for O’Sullivan, who has enjoyed much better nights.
Khati’s victory means his record reads 15-4-0.