Bayamon, Puerto Rico’s Roberto J. Acevedo (8-1, 5 KO’s) returned to the ring in sensational fashion last Friday night at Resorts International in Atlantic City, New Jersey, by crushing highly touted Russian prospect Ilshat “The Sheriff” Khusnulgatin in less than a round.
Appearing for the first time since suffering a controversial decision last March in Chicago, Acevedo made his first fight as a light heavyweight count by dropping and stopping Khusnulgatin (11-1, 6 KO’s) with an impressive series of powerful right hands.
The end came at 2:09 of the first round.
With the stunning victory, 26-year-old Acevedo reasserted himself as one of the top Puerto Rican prospects.
“I felt strong,” said Acevedo. “My hands went well and I could hurt him and finish him off. With the blessing of God, we were able to work and show that we are here to stay.”
Acevedo, who took the fight on only seven days’ notice, spoiled Khusnulgatin’s promotional debut with top boxing outfit Main Events. The 23-year-old Khusnulgatin stands nearly six feet four inches tall, and was being touted as a new star in boxing. Ranked #14 by the WBA, Khusnulgatin shares the same management and trains with WBO Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey Kovalev.
Acevedo is managed by Free Agent Boxing Management. He will be returning to the ring in March, looking for a regional title.
