Russian Takes European Championship Belt from Masternak

Few fans in Poland expected experienced Grigory Drozd (37-1, 26 KOs) to effectively stand up to the European champion, Mateusz Masternak (30-1, 22 KOs), who had been improving with every appearance. The Russian, however, confirmed in the ring that his month-long training camp had been more than just part of the pre-fight hype. After a fierce and at times brutal contest, he won by TKO and took the championship belt from the Wrocław fighter.

The first round was calm. Both fighters boxed technically and cautiously, sizing each other up. From the second round onward, Drozd increased the pace. He moved forward and, with one of his right hooks, cut Masternak above the eyebrow. The injury affected the Pole. “Master” began responding with open, offensive boxing and engaging in exchanges—the exact kind of fight that suited the Russian best.

In the seventh round, Drozd landed a combination that left Masternak visibly unsteady on his feet. It was the Pole’s first serious crisis. The Russian was in excellent physical condition and never let up. He kept pressing forward, although Masternak gamely fought back and occasionally countered effectively.

In the eleventh round, the challenger landed another left hook. After that punch, he launched a determined attack and overwhelmed Masternak with a barrage of further blows. The referee did not wait long. He decided that Drozd’s advantage had become too pronounced and that continuing the fight could endanger the Pole’s health. The Russian was awarded a technical-knockout victory.