Evans’ masterclass in boxing on inside
Zach Evans…excellent bodywork in landslide points victory
ZACH Evans appears a boxer destined for bigger things following his landslide points victory over seasoned journeyman Paul Cummings last night (Friday).
In only his third fight, light-middle Evans showed discipline, composure, patience and excellent shot-selection.
The only thing missing on BCB’s show at the Hangar, Wolverhampton, was the stoppage, but very few manage to prevent Cummings from hearing the final bell.
The Wiltshire veteran survived uncomfortable moments, yet scuffled and spoiled to the final bell.
I got the impression Evans, based in Droitwich, raised in Cannock, took his foot off the pedal from the fourth and was testing the waters of his first six rounder.
“I tried a little too hard,” the 26-year-old told me. “Another six rounder, then I want to push on, maybe a Midlands title down the line.”
We’ll know more about Evans’ true worth when he steps up and faces opposition with hunger and ambition to match his own.
But you can only beat what is placed in front of you and against Cummings, Evans (11st 4oz) gave a masterclass in boxing on the inside. Work to the body was particularly impressive.
He’d nail Cummings (11st 6lbs 9oz) with jarring uppercuts, step to the left, sink a hook to the body, step to the right and again bury a blow to the torso before pivoting to create a new angle.
By the second, Cummings’ left flank was red and angry, yet he plugged away.
From the halfway mark, Evans was enjoying success with lead uppercuts and over the final two rounds he virtually landed at will, though the shots lacked the spite of early sessions. He looked like a man pacing himself.
Referee Kevin Parker’s 60-54 verdict was a formality.
I’m not sure who trains Zach, but he’s well schooled in old school techniques.
It’s too early to get excited, but the lad appears a very useful addition to the pro ranks. We’ll know more when he faces someone a lot more competitive than Cummings who lost for the 77th time in 81 bouts.