“The right man won” – Liam Conroy rejects scoring debate, credits Steven Ward

It was a verdict which split opinion but Liam Conroy has now qualms with the verdict in his Fight of the Year contender with Steven Ward last night.

The light heavyweights went to war at the Ulster Hall in an instant classic, with Ward emerging victorious on a technical decision after the bout was halted in the ninth due to a nasty gash around his left eye sustained following a clash of heads.

All three scorecards read 76-75 in his favour and the Commonwealth Games silver medallist picked up the vacant WBO European title in the process.

However, there were some who felt Barrow’s Conroy did enough to get the win including the commentators for ESPN+ and some of the media ringside – not to mention the travelling fans.

The former English champion of Galway stock had Ward down in the fourth and badly hurt at times but he did not dispute the verdict at the time and has now come out and confirmed that he felt Ward won the bout.

Conroy acknowledged he enjoyed some eye-catching moments but points out that Ward, a former sparring partner, boxed more consistently throughout.

Posting on social media today Conroy described how “I had highlight reel-worthy moments in some of the rounds in the fight, Steve had more rounds where he was consistent and winning.”

“Close fight but Steve won more rounds. The right man on the night won for sure.”

There was plenty of respect shown before and after the bout and this revelation from Conroy led to more.

Same to you man, glad I got to share such a great fight infront of that brilliant crowd with yourself 😊

— Liam Conroy (@LiamConroy92) June 22, 2019