Result: Win Round 3 KO

Joe Craven put in an outstanding performance in Liverpool to claim the MTGP European 72.5kg title, knocking out experienced Italian Jacopo Tarantino in Liverpool.

After a cagey start from both fighters, Joe’s speed, focus and control began to tell, keeping his opponent off balance and clinching the opening round.

With 74 wins under his belt Tarantino showed more aggression in the second, landing several good elbows that led to a cut on the nose for the Leeds fighter, but the 28-year-old Italian was floored several times by kicks from Craven.

But the third round was all Craven as he unleashed big hands and impressive combinations to send Tarantino to the canvas three times before the referee called a halt after 48 seconds.

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