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| Paul Gallen and Darcy Lucik. Photo by Mark Evans/Getty Images |
Paul Gallen • Darcy Lusick • Boxing • National Rugby League
Former Cronola Sharks captain Paul Gallen defeated former rugby league star Darcy Lucic via TKO, with the referee stopping his heavyweight bout in the third and final round.
Lucik was the dominant fighter in the opening round, but was criticized by Australian boxing star Jeff Fenech for holding Galen around his neck while throwing punches.
"It's illegal," Fenech said. "He had him wrapped around his head and hit him."
Gallen moved forward in the second half but Lucik responded in kind, sending the former NSW captain to face the ropes while letting his fist fly.
But the 40-year-old is tough, and he hit back with some big, heavy shots. He absorbed the penalty but took big hits of his own and reclaimed the lead as Lucik appeared to be on his feet.
Two rounds of brutal body shots from Gallen were followed by more overhead shots, and at the end of the second round he scored the first knockout of the night. Another blow shook Lucik hard and he wiggled before falling before the bell.
Exhausted Manley striker.
"I think they should stop this," Fenech said. "He will get hurt."
There were more big body shots on the roster to start the third round and 30 seconds into the round, the referee called a fight.
