A delighted Andrew Moloney has delivered a career-defining victory, defeating Mexico’s Willibaldo Garcia in Japan to complete one of the greatest comeback stories in Aussie boxing.
In a gritty 12-round bout on Saturday, Moloney became the IBF super flyweight champion of the world by majority decision (115-113, 114-114, 115-113).
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Just over two years after sensationally walking away from boxing following a heartbreaking and controversial defeat to Pedro Guevara in Perth, Moloney reclaimed world honours at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname.
Moloney was visibly emotional and ecstatic after the judges’ verdict was revealed.
“I am the happiest man in the world,” Moloney said post-fight, per ESPN. “There is not one person in the world happier than I am now!
“That was one tough fight, but the sacrifices were worth it.
“I have given everything in this sport for 20 years. There was no way I could leave this ring without winning this world title.“
Garcia put Moloney on the back foot with his aggressive strategy in the early rounds, but the Australian thrived with a patient approach as he impressed with his technique.
Moloney in the lead-up to the fight revealed he was offered almost $350,000 (AU) to step aside from the weekend’s IBF super flyweight title fight and allow unified WBA, WBO and WBC champ Jesse Rodriguez the opportunity to pursue another unification bout.
Yet the Aussie never considered taking the money.