In the match before the main event of the evening, a truly unsportsmanlike act was seen.
Robert Helenius and Deontay Wilder headlined last night’s boxing night in New York, which ended before the first break. The match before the two met also ended in a knockout, when the middleweight Caleb Plant dropped by Anthony Dirrell.
Plant, who celebrated his victory, did not receive much praise for his gesture after the knockout. While Direll was still in a coma and being helped by the medical staff, the American Plant pretended to dig a grave for his opponent.
Caleb Plant (right) and Anthony Direll warmed up the boxing ring for Robert Helenius and Deontay Wilder. EPA/AOP
The arrogant trick also caused the referee to intervene in the situation and push Plant to the side, but the boxer continued his performance for a while. Plant explained his booed behavior at a press conference.
– I’m sure you’ve heard Dirrell hates me and how he doesn’t want a white boy to beat him. Let me tell you: victories don’t come with skin color, but with skill.
The match, which proceeded with precise steps, lasted until the ninth round.