Boxing Returned to the Historic Fox Theater and Did Not Disappoint
Boxing returned to the historic Fox Theater in Detroit, Michigan, Friday night for the first time since June 10, 2000. The card included former World Champion Ricky Hatton. Fittingly, before the main event aired on DAZN, we honored his legacy with the famed 10-bell salute—because truly, there was only one Ricky Hatton.
The night featured a mix of up-and-coming prospects and seasoned veterans throughout the card. One fighter who caught my eye right away was Jasmine Hampton. She kicked things off with her highly anticipated professional debut after a stellar amateur career. Hampton wasted no time, dispatching her opponent in under two minutes and not even giving her a chance to settle into the fight. With her alignment to Detroit’s own Tony and LJ Harrison and Team Superbad, she’s clearly going to be a force.
Next up was Khamel Makled out of New Way Boxing. His jab was sharp and the key to much of his offense. He scored a unanimous decision victory to remain undefeated. If he can keep his output consistent, he’ll continue to be an exciting fighter to watch. It was also great to see the strong support he had from the local crowd.
Savannah Tini was another standout of the night. Don’t get her name wrong—she’ll make you pay for it. Tini dominated her opponent, Michaele Nouge, showcasing excellent footwork and angles. She forced multiple knockdowns, going full throttle until the end and moving to 6-0. In our chat on Knockouts and 3 Counts, she spoke about her mission “to inspire women through her fights.” With a performance like that, she’s certainly on her way to doing so.
Sardius Simmons also impressed, moving to 4-0 with a unanimous decision over Lemir Isom Riley. Riley tested him at points, but Simmons showed grit and athleticism, turning it up when it mattered to secure the win.
Another fighter who left a lasting impression was Da’Velle Smith. I first saw him on the Claressa Shields card at Little Caesars Arena, and his raw talent stood out even then. Trained by Detroit legend SugarHill Steward, it’s no surprise he continues to shine. Smith was simply too skilled for his opponent, earning a second-round TKO. His crisp boxing, ability to control distance, and powerful counters—especially his straight right hand—were a masterclass in execution.
The night also featured a real treat: a WBA and WBC Women’s Middleweight Championship fight between Kaye Scott of Australia and Olivia Curry from Chicago. Though the bout ended in a draw, it was arguably the fight of the night. Scott, with just five fights under her belt, pushed Curry early and showed she belonged on this stage. A mid-fight headbutt caused a cut on Curry, but she fought through it with grit, dominating the later rounds with punishing body work. While the judges called it even, I personally had Scott edging it out. Regardless, both women put on a tremendous show, and a rematch would be a must-watch.
Finally, the main event featured heavyweights Brandon Moore of Polk County, Florida, and Flint’s own Deandre Savage. Moore had recently dropped 30 pounds, which was evident in his movement and stamina. Savage, an imposing 293 pounds with a 10-0 record, was a big test. However, Moore’s speed, combinations, and footwork carried the fight. He dropped Savage in the seventh round and earned a unanimous decision victory. Afterward, he called out heavyweight star Anthony Joshua—a bold move, but one that could lead to an exciting clash.
Overall, it was a fantastic night of fights put on by Salita Promotions—one you won’t want to miss the next time they’re in the Mitten.
Stay tuned to Knockouts and 3 Counts for more—we’ve got plenty of heat coming your way this Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET! And don’t forget to check out our friends at Bodyslam.net for the best in pro wrestling and combat sports news.
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