Sharif Bogere Turns Out Contreras' Lights on ShoBox

Sharif “The Lion” Bogere ended Friday night’s edition of ShoBox with a 3rd-round knockout of Francisco Contreras that left the sparse crowd at Texas Station Casino in Las Vegas scratching their heads.

Just before the stoppage Bogere caught Contreras with a looping right hand that appeared on replay to turn the Dominican’s chin. Contreras responded by falling into the ropes and turning away, leaving him open for a thudding blow from Bogere that glanced off his shoulder and the back of his head. Contreras slumped to the mat where he remained motionless well after the count. He was removed from the ring on a stretcher and taken to the hospital for examination.

Showtime analysts Steve Farhood and Antonio Tarver debated which shot ultimately injured Contreras but the point was moot as most onlookers were worried about Contreras. Bogere was visibly emotional afterward, possibly due to concern for his opponent’s health. The Ugandan native was more impressive than in his May ShoBox appearance against Raymundo Beltran but he still doesn’t look like he’s ready to take on the contenders at lightweight.

Despite the somber aftermath of the fight we would be remiss if we didn’t at least acknowledge Bogere’s abilities as a showman. While the fight itself turned sloppy at times, Bogere is a busy puncher and tries to keep things as exciting as possible. Add in his unique ring entrance, which involves being carried down the aisle in a cage wearing an actual lion pelt, and it’s clear why he has become an attraction in his adopted hometown.

21-year-old junior middleweight prospect Jermell Charlo failed to impress in the televised undercard despite winning an easy eight-round decision over Francisco Santana. A Houston native, Charlo (16-0, 7 KOs) has some boxing skill and a solid lead hand, but he seems to lack the power to make noise at 154 lbs. Charlo would do well to improve his defense before attempting to challenge the bigger punchers at his weight.