At the Palais des Sports in Marseille, a large audience including more than 700 Armenian fans, Armenian-born Frenchman Arsen Goulamirian (30, undefeated in 23 fights) won by KO in the 11th round the WBA Belgian light-heavyweight title Ryad Merhy. The Armenian was already leading a lot in points when a series of shots he wore and the Belgian KO the referee preferring to stop the fight. Ryad Merhy, who was undefeated in 24 fights, now has one defeat to his name …

It should be noted that Arsen Goulamirian entered the overheated room of the Palais des Sports in Marseilles on an Armenian song, that of Nercig Isbirian. In the Hall of Armenian flags were worn by supporters including a giant Armenian tricolor. “I dedicate this victory to France and Armenia” said after the fight the new world champion WBA light-heavyweight. Arsen Goulamirian offers France its first title of boxing world champion since Jean-Marc Mormeck. The fight was transmitted live on Canal + followed by millions of viewers in France and in many European countries.

Krikor Amirzayan