Conceição: New WBC Super Featherweight Champion

On the night of July 7 in Newark, USA, American WBC super featherweight champion (up to 59 kg) O'Shaquie Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) defended his title against Brazilian contender Robson Conceição (19-2-1, 9 KOs).

The fight ended with Conceição winning by a split decision. The judges' scores were 116-112 (Conceição), 116-112 (Foster), and 115-113 (Conceição).

This was Foster's third title defense. In February, O'Shaquie won by split decision against Abraham Nova (23-3, 16 KOs). For Conceicao, it was his second consecutive victory – he previously defeated Jose Ortiz (15-2-1, 5 KOs) by stoppage in April.

Fight Stats

Foster landed 109 out of 435 punches (25.1%). Conceição landed 76 out of 701 punches (10.8%).

Foster connected with 51 jabs out of 263 thrown (19.4%). Conceição connected with 27 out of 388 (7%).

Most of Foster's hits were power punches: 58 out of 172 (33.7%). Conceição landed 49 out of 313 (15.7%).

Overall, the former champion landed 20 body shots, 14 of which were power punches. Conceição landed 27 body shots, 12 of which were power punches.

What's Next?

Conceição's victory was somewhat controversial. The Brazilian attacked a lot but didn't land enough punches – many of them were blocked, hit the shoulders, or missed Foster altogether. In the second half of the fight, Conceição looked a bit unbalanced and dissatisfied with his performance. So, the 116-112 score in his favor seems questionable.

Given the nature of the fight and the judges' decision, a rematch is likely. Foster feels he deserved the win and will want to reclaim his title. Moreover, the tactical and technical nature of the bout makes it an intriguing matchup that would serve well as a co-main event for a future Top Rank show.