Olympic champion Khizhnyak began his professional career with a spectacular knockout
This is reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the results of the bout.
Oleksandr Khyzhniak, who competes in the light-heavyweight division, approached his professional debut as one of the world’s most decorated amateurs. The Ukrainian’s honours include gold at the 2024 Olympics, silver at the Tokyo Games, as well as the 2017 world and European titles.
Oleksandr’s opponent was the Colombian William Baron, who had considerable experience in the professional ring — 22 fights (8 wins, 13 losses and one draw). The bout was scheduled for six rounds, but Khizhnyak decided the outcome much sooner.
Within the first three minutes, following an intense exchange of blows, Baron found himself on the canvas. The Colombian managed to get back up and continue the fight, but the Ukrainian did not let up. Oleksandr landed a series of powerful straight and side punches, completely dominating the ring.
With 12 seconds remaining in the round, Khizhnyak sent his opponent to the canvas for the second time. This time, Baron was unable to get back up — the referee awarded the Ukrainian the victory by technical knockout. Thus, Oleksandr Khizhnyak began his professional career with a spectacular early victory.
