IN his first fight since losing an IBF title eliminator to Kubrat Pulev in Bulgaria seven months ago, heavyweight contender Hughie Fury cruised back to winning ways against Chris Norrad at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.
Boxing in front of his home fans in a scheduled 10-rounder, the 6ft 6in Fury came out on the front foot in the opener, thrusting out solid jabs followed up by wide, clumping right hooks to head and body.
Fury continued his aggressive approach in the second round, jabbing smartly and connecting with hurtful rights. A pair of clubbing shots from that fist brought about the end of the contest, with Norrad being forced down by the ropes. The overmatched 35-year-old Canadian failed to beat the referee’s count of 10, leading the bout to be called off at 1-51.
In truth, this was a walk in the park for the winner, who did as he pleased against an opponent who was unbeaten going into the fight, but had never fought anyone even remotely approaching Fury’s level. Furthermore, it was Norrad’s first appearance outside of Canada. The fleshy ex-cruiserweight was simply out of his depth. Despite being a former lumberjack, it was he who was chopped down, and with ease.
Still only 24 years old, time is on Fury’s side in his quest to secure a second world title try. Back in September 2017, the Mancunian came out second best when attempting to wrest the WBO belt from the grasp of then-champion Joseph Parker. His sights are now firmly set on working his way back up the rankings in order to earn another crack at global honours.
