Last night in Orbetello’s “Hero of the Two Worlds” square, the fight for the Italian lightweight title took place, organized by Rosanna Conti Cavini Boxe. The bout featured Arblin Kaba, known as “the wolf” from Le Torri Boxing Club in Bologna, against Francesco Acatullo, “the tiger” from Caivano.
Originally, Kaba was supposed to face Gasparri, who belongs to the same stable as Acatullo under the Cavini promotion, but he had to pull out due to injury.
It looked like it was going to be the wolf’s night. In his corner were the great coach Pesci and his son Olmo, and Arblin—already the former Italian super lightweight champion—showed focus and determination. But the match ended just as quickly as it began. The tiger from Caivano beat the wolf by technical knockout at 1:40 of the very first round with a right hand that stunned everyone. Kaba had started the round well, pressing forward with a determined jab, but Acatullo shut off his lights with a perfectly timed counter right that dropped him to the canvas. Kaba tried to get up, but the referee waved it off.
There was disbelief among boxing insiders and spectators alike. Speaking into the microphones after the fight, Acatullo made it clear: this title is the reward for 20 years of sacrifice in the gym. After many failed attempts, the tiger finally takes what he believes was rightfully his—and he does it in style.
It’s hard to predict what lies ahead for either fighter now. Despite his age, Acatullo promises more big achievements. As for the younger Kaba, he’ll need to regroup and come back as soon as possible.
A night full of surprises—but as we all know, this sport is nothing if not unpredictable.