Fans erupted in anger after judges announced the shocking scorecards for Josh Padley’s win over Reece Bellotti.
The pair clashed on the undercard of Dave Allen’s showdown with Arslanbek Makhmudov in Sheffield.
Padley entered as a 3/1 favourite, hoping to build on his comeback after losing to Shakur Stevenson in February.
Bellotti, desperate to revive his career after defeat to Ryan Garner, started aggressively and impressed throughout.
Most spectators believed Bellotti had edged the close contest, yet Padley emerged victorious by a wide unanimous decision.
The official cards read 99-92, 97-93, and 97-93 — margins that stunned fans and pundits alike.
Commentators Adam Catterall and Gareth A. Davies voiced disbelief live, calling the decision “outrageous” and “far too wide.”
Social media erupted with fury, with one fan writing, “Were they even watching? That is abysmal.”
Bellotti Dominates Early as Padley Struggles to Respond
Padley aimed to cement his position among Britain’s elite, but Bellotti controlled the early rounds with body shots and precision.
The Watford fighter slowed Padley’s rhythm and forced him onto the back foot with relentless pressure.
Bellotti’s work rate and accuracy won over most spectators, while Padley looked out of rhythm and hesitant.
Midway through the fight, Padley found new energy and began landing cleaner punches to regain momentum.
He finished stronger, pushing Bellotti backward in several late rounds, but few expected him to win comfortably.
When the final bell sounded, the fight appeared close enough for either man to claim a narrow victory.
Instead, the lopsided decision left Bellotti visibly stunned as he shook his head in disbelief.
Fans Demand Investigation into Judging Standards
Outrage spread quickly across boxing circles, with supporters calling for an immediate review of the scoring process.
Critics accused judges of bias and incompetence, arguing the cards distorted what had been a tightly contested bout.
“99-92 is disgusting,” one fan wrote online. “That judge needs investigating.”
Analysts warned that such decisions damage the sport’s credibility and discourage fighters from taking risks.
Despite the loss, Bellotti earned praise for his performance and may still receive future opportunities in the division.
Padley’s victory moves him forward in the rankings, but the controversy threatens to overshadow his achievement.
As the debate continues, many in boxing are demanding greater transparency and accountability from officials in future fights.
