Charlie Edwards Edges Thomas Essomba in Competitive Contest to Boost World Title Ambitions
Charlie Edwards took a significant step towards another world title shot with a hard-fought points victory over European bantamweight champion Thomas Essomba at London’s iconic York Hall. While the scorecards suggested a dominant win for Edwards, with scores of 117-111, 116-112, and 118-111 in his favour, the fight itself told a different story—one of grit, determination, and resilience from both boxers.
Edwards Displays Work Ethic, Essomba Shows Power
Throughout the 12 rounds, Edwards showcased his trademark work rate and movement, outworking Essomba in many of the exchanges. However, the Cameroonian, with his experience and ring savvy, posed a constant threat with his power punches, particularly the left hook. Essomba’s shots visibly troubled Edwards on more than one occasion, but the Englishman’s composure and ability to stay focused allowed him to weather the storm.
Reflecting on his performance, Edwards said, “Thomas is a tricky operator.” The Cameroonian’s bursts of power, especially in the later rounds, demonstrated just how close the contest was at times. But Edwards, known for his technical ability, was able to adapt and keep his rhythm when it mattered most.
Building Momentum for a World Title Challenge
This victory marks the 20th win of Edwards’ career as he pushes towards his goal of becoming a two-weight world champion. The Sutton-born boxer previously held the WBC flyweight title from 2018 to 2019, before vacating it due to difficulties in making the 112lb weight limit. After an extended period of inactivity, Edwards is now making waves again, having notched three wins in the past 15 months.
Edwards made his intentions clear after the fight, with his sights firmly set on a future bout against former IBF champion Paul Butler. “I’m a world champion, I want to fight champions,” Edwards declared post-fight, donning a T-shirt with Butler’s name on it. He also expressed an interest in facing one of the reigning Japanese world champions, stating, “All the champions are in Japan. I’d like to go out there.”
Personal Battle in More Ways Than One
The fight had added significance for Edwards, as it was a “personal” one for him. His brother, Sunny Edwards, who is a former IBF champion, currently manages Essomba. The dynamic between the brothers added an extra layer of intrigue, with Sunny, dressed in a floor-length fur coat, showing his support for both fighters throughout the night.
Though Sunny chose not to be in Essomba’s corner for the fight, he was a visible presence, and his tension was palpable as Edwards built an early lead in the first half of the fight. Essomba, however, showed his fighting spirit, roaring back in the later rounds and landing a punishing right hand in the ninth round, followed by a powerful left-right combination in the tenth.
Despite the pressure, Edwards displayed the composure and experience of a seasoned fighter, controlling the final rounds and ensuring that he stayed ahead on the judges’ scorecards. His ability to remain calm under fire has been a hallmark of his career, and it was evident again as he closed out the contest with poise.
Looking Ahead: Edwards’ World Title Ambitions
Edwards’ victory over Essomba strengthens his case for a shot at the bantamweight world title. He has been vocal about his ambition to return to the summit of the sport, and with this win, he is firmly on course to do so. His callout of Paul Butler after the fight makes for an enticing prospect, especially given the personal history between the two fighters. Edwards trained under Joe Gallagher, who now coaches Butler, adding an extra layer of rivalry to a potential bout.
Having overcome a tough and experienced opponent in Essomba, Edwards is now focused on moving forward and challenging the best in the division. With his renewed momentum, the next 12 months could see the former world champion add another title to his resume.
