Andy Hiraoka Stops Ismael Barroso In Ninth Round; Jin Sasaki Extends KO Streak

Andy Hiraoka has punched his way into title contention.

The unbeaten junior welterweight picked up an interim version of the WBA title with a ninth-round stoppage of Venezuela’s Ismael Barroso. The all-southpaw battle ended with Barroso’s corner waving the towel at 2:58 of round nine Tuesday at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Barroso, 41, looked for counterpunching opportunities all night. He had pockets of success, but his chances were few and far between. Hiraoka used his long reach...