Figueroa Stuns Ball With Final-Round KO to Capture WBA Featherweight Crown

Brandon Figueroa pulled off one of boxing's most dramatic comebacks on Friday night at Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena, knocking defending champion Nick Ball through the ropes in the final round to capture the WBA featherweight title. Figueroa (27-2-1, 20 KOs) stunned the hometown crowd with a devastating overhand left just seconds into Round 12, sending Ball (23-1-1, 13 KOs) face-down onto the canvas in what appeared to be a fight heading to the scorecards.

Ball barely beat the count, rising to his feet at nine, but was clearly in no condition to continue fighting. Sensing his wounded opponent was vulnerable, Figueroa immediately pressed the action and unleashed a follow-up combination that sent the Liverpool native crashing through the ropes and onto the ring apron. The referee waved off the fight, crowning Figueroa as the new WBA featherweight champion in front of a shocked crowd that had been cheering for their local hero throughout the evening.

The undefeated Ball had entered the fight as a strong favorite, looking to make the fourth defense of the title he won in June 2024 with a controversial split decision over Raymond Ford. Fighting in front of his passionate Liverpool supporters at the M&S Bank Arena, Ball appeared to be in control for most of the fight, using his aggressive style and superior ring generalship to dictate the pace. However, boxing's unpredictable nature was on full display as Figueroa's championship experience and power ultimately proved decisive when it mattered most.

For Figueroa, the victory marks his third world title across two weight classes and represents a triumphant return to championship status. The former super bantamweight and featherweight world champion had entered the fight at 26-2-1, determined to reclaim his position among the sport's elite. His ability to remain patient and wait for his opportunity in the championship rounds showcased the veteran savvy that separates good fighters from great ones. The dramatic knockout also avenges earlier setbacks in his career and reestablishes him as a force in the featherweight division.

The fight highlighted the razor-thin margins that define championship boxing, where one punch can change everything in an instant. Ball's first professional defeat serves as a harsh reminder of the sport's unforgiving nature, though at 23 years old, he has plenty of time to rebuild and potentially earn a rematch. The Liverpool crowd, initially devastated by the result, showed respect for both fighters as they left the ring, acknowledging the courage and skill displayed throughout the contest.

Figueroa's stunning victory sends shockwaves through the featherweight division and sets up potential superfights with other champions and top contenders. With his power, experience, and proven ability to deliver in crucial moments, the newly crowned champion has positioned himself as one of the most dangerous fighters at 126 pounds. As for Ball, the journey back to championship status begins immediately, and his talent suggests this setback will only fuel his determination to reclaim what he lost.