Joe Joyce batters Christian Hammer, wins by stoppage

Heavyweight contender Joe Joyce, fighting for the first time in almost a year, beat up and stopped gatekeeper Christian Hammer in round four at Wembley Arena in London, Eng. Saturday night. 

The six-foot-six-inch Joyce fired several jabs in the opening stanza. Some landed. Hammer was able to connect with three overhand rights. Joyce has a strong chin, but it’s not against the rules to duck. (Carlos Takam nailed him with the same punch many times in 2021) 

Joyce (14-0, 13 KOs) was more active in round two. He unloaded combinations. Hammer fought back, finding Joyce easy to hit. Joyce,36, forced Hammer (27-10, 17 KOs) into the ropes in round three and unloaded. 

Hammer,34, shook his head no - and connected with rights from his corner. Joyce dug into the body. Seconds later, Hammer went down to one knee. He looked exhausted. 

Joyce came out punching in round four. A body shot floored Hammer for the second time. He stood up and fired some haymakers, but a right forced Hammer to the canvas. He beat the count, but one more body shot ended the fight. 

“I’m ready for the world stage,” said Joyce. “I’m at that level.”

Joyce is awkward and relentless. To say his win was impressive would be a stretch, but he’s now starched 13 opponents in 14 fights.