More than 25 years ago, Vince Phillips’ stunning victory over the previously undefeated Kostya Tszyu sent shockwaves through the boxing world.
On that fateful night, Phillips, trained by the renowned Kenny Adams, earned a 10th-round TKO to claim the IBF junior welterweight title.
Tszyu, a gifted power puncher, had long been considered unbeatable. But Phillips, a strong, tough, lean, and mean fighter, proved otherwise. “Vince was with me most of the time, and during that time frame, I always had him in great shape and great condition,” Adams recalled to BoxingScene. “The greatest thing that could happen for guys to move to the next level is to be in shape and be in good condition.“
Phillips’ triumph over Tszyu was a stunning upset, as the former was coming off a split-decision loss to Romallis Ellis, a fight that took place at welterweight. However, Phillips always seemed to perform at his best in the division below.
Following his monumental victory, Phillips went on to defend the IBF junior welterweight title four times, cementing his status as a force to be reckoned with. “He was hard to beat,” Adams said. “He took it to the next level.“
This mountain-moving influence has led to Adams being on the cusp of induction to the International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 9 at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Showroom in Verona, New York, a well-deserved recognition for his contributions to the sport.
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