Caleb Plant had the perfect stage to assert his dominance and remind his doubters that he still belonged at the top. And he did. The former IBF super middleweight champion not only picked Trevor McCumby apart but clinched the interim WBA strap in the process. However, it didn’t turn out to be easy, as the challenger had his moments, which he seized with both hands.

Plant, 32, finished the fight in the ninth round, as he did a number on McCumby and secured the win. The result also beautifully sets the stage for a rematch with Canelo Alvarez.

Caleb Plant and Trevor McCumby put on a show

Plant initially had his way in the fight, as he pushed and toyed with McCumby. But Trevor McCumby waited for his moment, which came in the fourth round when he dropped Plant. The fight’s action intensified, and McCumby came with aggression in the next round, even showboating while dodging Plant’s mistimed punches. For a while, he had the former world champion on the ropes, but the latter mustered his will and spirit to engage in exchanges. The fight was only fought in close pockets after that, with Caleb Plant finding his mojo soon.

Plant then put on a show for the fans, as he trash-talked and danced in the ring. McCumby showed grit and absorbed whatever Plant threw at him until the referee felt he had seen enough. The fans were on their toes, watching the action unfold, and shared their excitement across various forums.

Pros and pundits debate ‘Sweethands’ outing

Mike Coppinger summarized what went on in the fight as he wrote, “Caleb Plant pouring it on Trevor McCumby now. This fight was highly competitive over the first half but Plant has taken over. And the referee stops the fight at the closing bell of Round 9 as Plant unloaded on McCumby on the ropes. McCumby was game but Plant too good.” Despite McCumby’s gutsy performance and his solid chin, he left the arena with the first loss in his record column.

Vergil Ortiz lauded Plant for his antics inside the ring and how he overcame a knockdown. He declared, “@SweetHandsPlant YOU A DOG!!!” Plant remained aggressive throughout the fight and mocked McCumby with his gestures in the fight even after taking a knee and his aggressive approach eventually earned him the win.

However, Shawn Porter contested Plant wasn’t ready for the Alvarez fight next. He argued, “All respect but you don’t break someone down slowly and knock ‘em out in the 6th rd….. especially not Canelo. This kid ain’t ready.” The former world champion remained skeptical about how Plant would keep up with his power-punching approach, as he tends to fade away towards the end of the fights.

Sergio Mora praised Plant for his aggressive fighting approach despite the hiccups. He said, “Plant a mean (and smart) mofo, man! He was in a fight tonight and found a way to get the stoppage!!” Mora handed it to Plant for his smart tactics and boxing IQ, where he stuck a balance between aggression, power punching, and how to unload blows after spotting holes in defense.

Claressa Shields extended her heartfelt message to Plant. She stated, “Congrats @SweetHandsPlant !!!!!! Way to go thru adversity, bite down on your mouth piece & stop the show! Proud man!!!!” Despite getting rattled in round 4, Plant only doubled down on his approach, bid his time, and employed psychological tactics to gain an edge.

What do you make of this fight between Caleb Plant and Trevor McCumby? Let us know in the comments below.