Rohan Daté held to a draw versus fellow unbeaten prospect

Rohan Daté was held to a draw tonight in England as the hot prospect’s big step up did not go entirely to plan.

The Waterford welterweight, in just his fifth fight, elected to take on another unbeaten prospect on a Siesta Boxing bill in Bracknell but was held to a draw by Wes Smith.

While it was a step up in opposition, it was a step down in rounds. Last time out, Daté had been scheduled for six versus Jade Karam – and he needed just 26 seconds to blast out the Cork-based South African at the WIT Arena.

Here, the fight was set for just four and, following a strong start, Daté was held to a stalemate.

The Dubai-based puncher controlled the opening rounds, outworking and outlanding his Cornish opponent but being unable to hit home with any real clean shots.

Smith sprang into action in the third, buzzing Daté at the start of the round but the Déise man recovered and forced back his opponent.

The fourth was perhaps the clearest round in Smith’s favour, with the Englishman troubling Daté with the left hook, winning the stanza and securing the draw.

The result, which he disagreed with, sees Daté’s record move to [4(3)-0-1] however it would look to be but a minor setback for the 25-year-old who will surely now look for a rematch. Smith’s ledger now reads [3(1)-0-1].