OMARI Jones breezed through his second professional contest four weeks after a successful debut.
The 22-year-old racked up another early win this time with a first-round knockout in Atlantic City against Cincinnati’s William Jackson. This added to his winning start on home turf at the Caribe Royale Orlando putting Alessio Mastronunzio away in two rounds.
Jones, who aims to become a world champion by 2028, came out with an authoritative jab, immediately taking control of the six-round welterweight bout. Jackson attempted a sneaky overhand right that whizzed past Jones. Had it landed, it might have served as a timely reminder that the professional code differs greatly from the amateur ranks, where Jones’ reputation grew, culminating in a bronze medal at the 2020 Olympic Games.
Jackson, 36, pressed forward, looking to test the young star, but an off-balance right hand was deftly evaded by Jones, who countered with a jolting right to the veteran’s midsection. Referee David Franciosi started the count, but Jackson, crumpled face-down in the fetal position and clearly in pain, was unable to rise. The fight ended at 1:47 of the first round. Jackson’s record now stands at 13-6-2 (5 KOs).
Afterward, Jones spoke to Chris Mannix about his second winning performance: “I felt great about it. He was a veteran and we was looking to get some rounds but if I can do something like that then I’ll go ahead and get him out of there.”
When asked if he knew the body shot had finished his opponent, Jones replied: “Absolutely. I was in the corner, I was moving, he came out strong and my coach and team told me he came out with big shots, he came aggressive but I just stayed tight and then I looked for the shot and landed it.”
