🥊 Paul Gallen vs Sonny Bill Williams: Full Fight Recap, Winner & Highlights

📰 The Anticipated Clash of Titans Ends in Split Decision

In a highly anticipated boxing showdown, Paul Gallen defeated Sonny Bill Williams via split decision in what many are calling one of the most dramatic and controversial bouts in recent memory. Held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, the fight drew thousands of viewers across pay-per-view and live attendance, marking the end of a decade-long rivalry between two of Australia and New Zealand’s most iconic athletes.

🧾 Official Result: Who Won Gallen vs SBW?

Paul Gallen emerged victorious after 8 grueling rounds. The judges scored the contest:

77–74 for Gallen
74–77 for Williams
76–75 for Gallen

The result left fans and analysts split, with many debating the scoring and a controversial point deduction against SBW in Round 7 for excessive holding.

🧠 Fight Recap: Round-by-Round Highlights

🔹 Early Rounds: SBW Controls the Pace

Sonny Bill Williams started strong, using his reach and speed to control the distance. His clean jabs and footwork gave him the edge in the first few rounds, frustrating Gallen’s more aggressive style.

🔹 Middle Rounds: Gallen Fires Back

By Round 4, Gallen began closing the gap, applying pressure and landing body shots. The momentum began to shift as SBW struggled to keep Gallen at bay.

🔹 Round 7 Controversy

The turning point came when SBW was penalized a point for excessive clinching, a move that likely influenced the final scorecards.

🔹 Final Round Drama

Both fighters gave it their all in the 8th and final round, with Gallen walking forward and SBW trying to survive behind his guard. The crowd roared as the bell rang, unsure who had edged it.

🧑‍⚖️ Post-Fight Reactions

Paul Gallen:

"I’m not going to gloat. I respect SBW, but I pushed harder in the end. I felt I won clearly."

Sonny Bill Williams:

SBW left the ring immediately after the decision and declined post-fight interviews. His team was visibly upset, and fans expressed mixed reactions online.

📝 Fight Card Summary

Paul Gallen def. Sonny Bill Williams (Split Decision)
David Nyika TKO Nikolas Charalampous
Alex Leapai Jr KO Herve Silu Mata
Rahim Mundine TKO Joe Vatusaqata
Kris Terzievski def. Troy Pilcher
Clay Waterman def. Mose Auimatagi Jr

📊 Fighter Stats

Fighter	Age	Boxing Record	Height	Notable Wins
Paul Gallen	43	16–2–1	183 cm	Mark Hunt, SBW
Sonny Bill Williams	39	9–2	194 cm	Barry Hall, Francois Botha

📺 How to Watch the Replay

Australia: Available on Stan Pay-Per-View
International: Check with local sports networks and streaming services
Replays: Will be available on Stan Sports app and selected platforms soon

🧠 Did Gallen vs SBW Live Up to the Hype?

Absolutely. The Gallen vs SBW clash wasn’t just about two former footy stars turning to boxing—it was a battle of pride, pressure, and legacy. While the decision may remain debated, the fight delivered action, drama, and a memorable conclusion to a long-standing rivalry.

🔚 Final Word

Whether you were Team SBW or Team Gallen, this bout will be remembered as one of the most gripping celebrity-era boxing matches in Australasia. With retirement possibly looming for both, fans can now only speculate what's next—but Gallen walks away with the final word in the ring.

Paul Gallen vs Sonny Bill Williams: Full Fight Recap, Winner & Highlights