Richards and Azeez, both from South London and former sparring partners, contested a competitive bout through the opening 11 rounds. Ringside scores varied heading into the final round, with the fight viewed by many observers as close.
Richards boxed at range during the early rounds, using his reach and working behind single shots. Azeez pressed forward, forcing exchanges and closing distance. The action remained consistent through the early and middle rounds.
The contest continued through the middle rounds without a knockdown. Both fighters remained upright as the bout moved toward the later stages. The fight entered the final rounds without a knockdown having been recorded.
The stoppage came early in the 12th round. Richards landed a right hand during an exchange. Azeez responded with a left hook, but Richards countered with a left hook of his own. The punch landed on the jaw, dislodging Azeez’s mouthpiece and sending him to the canvas on his back. The referee waved off the contest without issuing a count.
The official time of the stoppage was 0:23 of Round 12.
With the win, Richards improved his professional record to 20-4-1 with 13 knockouts. The victory earned him the vacant IBF International light heavyweight title.
Azeez, 36, suffered the knockout loss after reaching the final round of the scheduled contest. He had not been knocked down prior to the stoppage.
The bout served as the main event of Matchroom Boxing’s first event in Africa. The fight was held at Legon Sports Stadium in Accra.
No immediate announcements were made regarding future bouts for either fighter following the contest.
