IBF bantamweight champion Leo Santa Cruz, 24, and Eric Morel, 36 battled tooth and nail with the younger Cruz eventfully wearing Morel down to stop him in round five at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Santa Cruz’s commitment to the body started in the first round. He stalked Morel constantly throwing strong punches. Morel fired back landing a few uppercuts, but none slowing Santa Cruz down. The young champions work rate was too much for Morel throughout the bout. Each round was a carbon copy of  the first. Santa Cruz's left hook couldn't miss Morel’s chin.

In round four, Santa Cruz (25-0, 12 KOs) landed a vicious combination that staggered the former champion. Santa Cruz had landed 89 body punches through four rounds.

Morel (46-4, 23 KOs) came out moving in round five. Santa Cruz was back in charge after the two-minute mark. His unyielding attack continued on the body of Morel. A hard combination dazed Morel. On his stool and looking dazed, Morel’s corner decided that he was taking to much punishment and called the fight.

There was no protest from Morel.The victory was the most impressive of Santa Cruz's career.

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