Sonny Bill Williams vs Paul Gallen: Live Round-by-Round Updates from Australia’s Hotly Anticipated Boxing Clash

Sonny Bill Williams vs Paul Gallen LIVE: Main Event & Undercard Highlights
By Shayne Bugden for Daily Mail Australia | Updated: 10:30 BST, 16 July 2025

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GALLEN DEFEATS WILLIAMS IN THRILLING CLASH
In a brutal 10-round battle, Paul Gallen edged Sonny Bill Williams via split decision (96-94, 94-96, 97-93) in their long-awaited grudge match. Williams started strong, leveraging his reach advantage, but Gallen’s relentless body shots and pressure turned the tide. By Round 8, Williams visibly slowed, while Gallen’s stamina shone. "I knew I had to outwork him," said Gallen post-fight. Williams conceded, "He was the better man tonight."

Undercard Highlights

DAVID NYIKA STOPS CHARALAMPOUS IN FIVE
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Nyika (9-1) dominated Nikolas Charalampous with precise combinations. Despite Charalampous’ resilience, a fifth-round body shot forced his corner to throw in the towel. "I wanted to prove I belong at the top," said Nyika, who rebounded from a 2024 loss to Jai Opetaia.

RAHIM MUNDINE KNOCKS OUT VATUSAQATA
Anthony Mundine’s son, Rahim (2-0), floored Joe Vatusaqata twice in Round 2 with explosive right hooks. The rising star showcased sharp defense and timing. "I’m here to carve my own legacy," Mundine declared. Danny Green’s son Archie later hinted at a future showdown, sparking playful rivalry banter.

LEAPAI JR’S FIRST-ROUND DEMOLITION
Alex Leapai Jr (5-0) needed just 2:30 to KO Herve Silu Mata. A crushing right hand ended the bout, cementing the heavyweight prospect’s hype. "I’m coming for bigger names next," he vowed.

Key Moments & Quotes

• Mark Hunt’s Prediction: The UFC legend tipped Gallen due to his "fighting dog" mentality, criticizing SBW’s technical approach.
• Mundine vs. Green Feud Reignited: Anthony Mundine teased a potential clash between his son and Danny Green’s son Archie, calling it "a generational showdown."
• Williams’ Regret: "I should’ve pushed harder early," admitted SBW, hinting at retirement.

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Fans React
The sold-out Qudos Bank Arena crowd roared for Gallen’s grit and Mundine’s promise. Social media erupted, with #GallenWilliams trending globally.

What’s Next?
Gallen eyes a final bout before retiring, while Nyika targets regional titles. All eyes remain on the Mundine-Green dynasty brewing in the background.

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