Maxi Hughes was on an impressive career renaissance in 2021 when he won the British lightweight title with a knockout of Paul Hyland Jr.
However, the bout’s conclusion was infamously shambolic as confusion reigned, stemming from referee Mark Lyson.
The referee initially indicated for a knockdown…MTK Global
…but he then changed his mind when Hyland Jr was not lookingMTK Global
Hyland Jr had put up a solid fight for the first seven rounds, but was ultimately outmatched against Hughes.
A relentless body attack was a big factor for the eventual winner throughout.
In round eight, Hughes got through with yet another strong left hook to the body.
Hyland Jr wilted and the referee jumped in between the pair – assuming he would touch down and score a knockdown.
The referee pointed for Hughes to go to a neutral corner, but then noticed Hyland Jr had recovered before touching the canvas.
As a result, he instantly corrected himself and told the pair to box on.
However, as he thought a knockdown had been scored, Hyland Jr turned away and did not see the referee change his mind.
With the action resumed, Hughes then ran over and smashed his unsuspecting foe with a massive right hook to the head when he was not looking.
Hyland Jr collapsed to the canvas and was counted out as a result.
The bizarre finish did not discount from Hughes’ performance though.
Hughes took advantage and scored the KOMTK Global
Hyland Jr was not protecting himselfMTK Global
The Doncaster man previously lost two British title attempts at super-featherweight and was considering walking away from the sport.
He then put together a stunning win streak having upset Jono Carroll, outpointed Viktor Kotochigov and conquered the Lonsdale belt against Hyland Jr.
Following this win, he beat Jovanni Straffon, Ryan Walsh and Kid Galahad to continue his fantastic form.
Hughes’ run finally came to an end in 2023, in controversial fashion.
He signed to face Australia’s former world champion George Kambosos Jr, but did not get the decision on the judges’ scorecards in a very contentious result.
Earlier this year, he returned to face the highly rated contender William Zepeda, and was comfortably stopped after four rounds.
Hughes has since returned with a win over Efstathios Antonas and his next move is unknown.
In contrast, Hyland Jr never boxed again after his fight with Hughes.