Who is involved
Before March 28, 2026, the boxing community anticipated a different outcome for the highly touted Shakiel Thompson. With a record of 15 wins, including 11 knockouts, and a ranking of No. 3 in the IBF, Thompson was seen as a rising star poised to challenge for the vacant IBF middleweight title. His confidence was palpable as he prepared for the fight against Brad Pauls, who entered the ring with a record of 20 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. The expectation was that Thompson would continue his ascent in the boxing world.
However, the fight took a dramatic turn. Pauls, who had been considered the underdog, delivered a stunning performance that culminated in a ninth-round knockout. The decisive moment came when Pauls landed a powerful right hand that shook Thompson, leading to a series of blows that resulted in Thompson being knocked down twice in the ninth round. The fight was stopped at 1:30 into the round, marking a significant upset in the boxing world.
The immediate effects of this victory were profound. Brad Pauls improved his record to 21-2-1, with 12 KOs, and claimed the IBF international belt, a significant achievement in his career. In contrast, Thompson’s record fell to 15-2, and he faced the harsh reality of being outboxed for eight rounds before the knockout. The defeat not only impacted Thompson’s standing but also shifted the focus of the boxing community towards Pauls, who emerged as a formidable contender.
Expert voices in the boxing community have weighed in on this unexpected outcome. “A big night just got bigger,” Thompson remarked, acknowledging the significance of the event. Pauls, reflecting on his victory, stated, “I needed a stoppage to win, which I obliged.” This sentiment underscores the urgency and determination that characterized Pauls’ approach to the fight.
Thompson’s defeat raises questions about his future in the sport. Following the loss, the IBF ordered him to face Etinosa Oliha for their vacant 160-pound title later in 2026. This development indicates that while Thompson may have stumbled, he still has opportunities to reclaim his status in the boxing hierarchy.
The fight was part of a larger event at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, which also featured a heavyweight bout between Moses Itauma and Jermaine Franklin Jr. The event was broadcast on DAZN, further amplifying the reach and impact of the fight. The attention surrounding Pauls’ victory is likely to influence future matchups and rankings within the IBF.
As the boxing world processes this shocking upset, the narrative surrounding Brad Pauls has shifted dramatically. Once viewed as a challenger, he now stands at the forefront of the middleweight division, with the potential to become a significant player in upcoming title fights. The implications of this match extend beyond the ring, as fans and analysts alike speculate on the future trajectories of both fighters.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the next steps for both Pauls and Thompson, but one thing is clear: the landscape of boxing has changed, and all eyes will be on Pauls as he navigates this new chapter in his career.