Brandon Figueroa Knocks Out Nick Ball to Claim WBA Featherweight Title
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Figueroa’s stunning 12th-round knockout of Nick Ball on Saturday delivered a thrilling conclusion to a back-and-forth WBA featherweight championship fight, crowning a new champion in a display of relentless action. The 5-foot-2 Figueroa overcame a strong start from Ball, ultimately securing the victory with a pinpoint left hook that sent his opponent crashing to the canvas.
Ball’s Early Dominance and Figueroa’s Measured Response
The early rounds saw Ball, known for his aggressive inside fighting style, successfully bullying his way into close range. He landed a consistent barrage of power punches, finding success with both uppercuts and hooks. “Ball was really effective at getting inside and unloading,” noted one ringside analyst. Figueroa, though, remained composed, employing his signature strategy of targeting the body with combinations while mixing in stiff jabs and straight right hands.
A Shift in Momentum and a Dramatic Finish
As the fight progressed, Figueroa began to assert more control, forcing Ball onto the defensive. The scorecards appeared to be tightening, setting the stage for a dramatic final round. After a touch of gloves to start the 12th, both fighters knew a coast to the final bell wasn’t an option. The pivotal moment arrived 32 seconds into the round when Figueroa landed a perfectly timed left hook, sending Ball face-first to the canvas.
Despite bravely beating the count, Ball was visibly unsteady. Sensing vulnerability, Figueroa unleashed a sustained flurry of punches, ultimately driving Ball through the ropes and prompting the referee to stop the contest.
Figueroa’s Second Championship Reign and Ball’s First Loss
With this victory, Figueroa, 27, becomes a world champion for the second time in his career. He previously held the WBC junior featherweight title, losing it in a 2021 “Fight of the Year” clash with Stephen Fulton. Fulton remains the only fighter to have defeated Figueroa, having also won their 2025 rematch.
For Ball, the loss marks the first of his professional career and ends his reign of four successful title defenses, which began with a split decision victory over Ray Ford in June 2024.The defeat is undoubtedly a setback, but the competitive nature of the fight suggests Ball will remain a force in the featherweight division.
