Johnny Fisher staged a dramatic and vital comeback on Saturday night in Monte Carlo, surviving a shocking first-round knockdown to stop the previously unbeaten Ivan Balaz in the fourth frame.
A Rocky Start in the Principality
The fight, which took place on Saturday 6 December 2025, began disastrously for the British heavyweight. Fisher, known as the "Romford Bull", was badly hurt and sent to the canvas by two left hooks from his Slovakian opponent in the opening round. Although the referee did not officially score it as a knockdown due to some preceding grappling, Fisher was clearly in serious trouble.
Struggling to regain his senses, the 26-year-old rose too quickly and stumbled towards Balaz before somehow surviving to the bell. The early setback placed immense pressure on Fisher, who was returning from the first defeat of his professional career against Dave Allen back in May.
Regrouping and Turning the Tide
The second round saw Fisher drawn into more dangerous exchanges while still unsteady. His difficulties were compounded when he was deducted a point by the referee for a low blow. However, a shift began in the third round as Balaz, 29, started to show signs of fatigue.
Before the fourth, Fisher received crucial advice from his new trainer, Tony Sims, who replaced Mark Tibbs earlier this year. The corner talk proved pivotal. Fisher emerged for the fourth round with renewed purpose and quickly dropped Balaz with a sharp left hook.
A Dramatic Finish and Emotional Release
Within seconds of the restart, Fisher floored Balaz again with another left. A third and final knockdown prompted the official to wave off the contest, handing Fisher a hard-earned stoppage victory.
An emotional Fisher roared his celebration to the crowd, shouting: "F***ing come on! I’m alive, don’t give up!" In his post-fight interview, he reflected on his gritty performance. "There’s lots of things I’ve got to do better, but that will come in time with my new trainer, Tony Sims," Fisher stated. "One thing I guarantee every time you watch me: you’re gonna get your money’s worth."
Pressure and Future Prospects
Promoter Eddie Hearn emphasised the high stakes Fisher faced. "I don’t think people realise how much pressure there was on him tonight. You lose in here tonight, you’re talking about, ‘Where do you go?’" Hearn said, praising his fighter's heart.
The victory was particularly significant as it marked the third consecutive fight in which Fisher had been knocked down. He faced Balaz on just a few days' notice after the late withdrawal of Uganda's Herbert Matovu. For Balaz, the defeat was the first blemish on his previously perfect record.
Fisher's rollercoaster win in Monaco has reignited his career, proving his resilience and setting the stage for his next chapter under trainer Tony Sims.
