Lucas Matthysse defeated Ruslan Provodnikov on Saturday night (Photo: Instagram)

By Chris Robinson

Lucas Matthysse once again proved his worth on Saturday night, winning a hard-fought, gritty battle against Russia’s Ruslan Provodnikov over 12 rounds inside of the Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York.

Matthysse showed himself to be the more versatile fighter in a matchup many expected to be a Fight of the Year candidate.

Provodnikov came out of the gates too slow and Matthysse took control early, touching him with shots from both hands. And while Ruslan did eventually settle down and work his way back into the fight, often pushing Matthysse back with his thudding shots, it was too little, too late after the final bell rang.

A 114-114 scorecard issued from Don Ackerman was overruled by two 115-113 tallies from Glenn Feldman and John McKaie in Matthysse’s favor.

The mild-mannered Argentinean now moves to 37-3 with 34 knockouts and don’t be surprised to see HBO push for a showdown against ultra-talented Terence Crawford, who stopped Puerto Rico’s Thomas Dulorme in the evening’s co-feature.

Matthysse’s promoter Golden Boy Promotions, has to be thrilled with his performance, especially in the wake of their stable being shaken up following Haymon Boxing’s foray into the boxing field.

Matthysse is one of the best fighters on Golden Boy’s stable and always makes for great television.

Chris Robinson can be reached at CRobinson@hustleboss.com