Nick Ball retains title despite kick controversy against TJ Doheny

Nick Ball successfully defended his WBA featherweight title against TJ Doheny in a controversial match held in Liverpool, with Doheny's corner pulling him out at the end of the tenth round. The fight was marked by a contentious moment in the first round when Ball kicked Doheny after breaking free from a headlock, an incident that sparked discussions about whether he should have been penalized. Promoters Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn weighed in, with Warren arguing that the kick was a reaction to Doheny's hold and Hearn suggesting that a point deduction might have been appropriate but disqualification was unwarranted. Although Ball lost a point later in the fight for a separate foul, he continued to dominate, ultimately forcing Doheny's corner to stop the bout. Ball's victory improved his record to 22-0-1, and he has set his sights on a potential fight with Naoya Inoue. Doheny, now with a record of 26-6, has faced a challenging career path, including recent losses to top contenders.