Unbeaten light-heavyweight Badien Hasso retains WBC International title with masterclass over David Kerkmann

Badien Hasso retains WBC International title with dominant second-round TKO

In an absolute display of power and determination, Kurdistan region’s own Badien Hasso (24-0, 13 KOs) successfully retained his WBC International Light-Heavyweight title, defeating German southpaw challenger David Kerkmann via technical knockout (TKO) in the second round.

The bout topped an intimate yet vibrant card promoted by Ahmet Öner at the elegant venue “The Address,” located in Mülheim (Ruhr – Westphalia, Germany).

Although Kerkmann entered the ring with a respectable BoxRec rating, he could do very little against a highly motivated champion. WBC #31 Hasso put on a masterclass with a clear mission: to showcase his full potential right in front of Mr. Sardar Ismail, the General Director of Sports in Kurdistan, who witnessed the action from ringside.

The Iraqi-born German has now won the WBC International belt and defended it both times by KO, and in under two months. Hasso KO'd Victor Vicente Correa Ramos in the first round in May in Germany, and now made his maiden defence within two rounds just eight weeks later.

The Finish

The end came early in the second frame. Just 57 seconds into the round, Hasso landed a powerful right hand that sent the German challenger to the canvas. Although 42-year-old Kerkmann, known as Mr. Bomb, managed to beat the count and get back to his feet, referee Jürgen Langos made an excellent call, halting the contest as it was clear the challenger was in no condition to proceed.

Kurdistan Pride and Future Plans

Following the victory, Badien Hasso—who was born in the Kurdistan region—reaffirmed his identity and his strong desire to be officially recognized under the flag of his native region, emphasizing his roots and distancing himself from representing Iraq.

Post-fight, Mr. Sardar Ismail shared the ambitious plans already in motion: bringing high-level boxing directly to Kurdistan. The immediate goal is to organize a major event on Kurdish soil, allowing Hasso to defend his crown in front of his home crowd. With the full backing of the General Directorate of Sports and the momentum of this definitive victory, the champion is expected to move up significantly in the upcoming world rankings.