Belgium’s Gianny De Leu secured a major career milestone on Saturday night, defeating Fergus Smith by unanimous decision to win the vacant WBC Muay Thai Bantamweight World Title.
The bout took place in Ninove, Belgium on April 25, 2026, with De Leu delivering a composed and controlled performance across five rounds at 53.5kg. All three judges scored the contest in his favour, returning cards of 49–45, 49–45, and 50–44.
Nicknamed “The Lion of Flanders,” the 24-year-old showcased his experience and ring management throughout, consistently outworking Smith and limiting his opportunities to impose his own game.
De Leu came into the fight with a proven international resume, highlighted by an ISKA Muay Thai World Title and experience competing at Thailand’s premier venues, Rajadamnern Stadium and Lumpinee Stadium.
Smith, ranked No. 5 by the WBC heading into the bout, came in with momentum. The British fighter had impressed in recent outings, including a knockout win over Zahran Al-Wesabi in his ONE Championship debut in October 2025, followed by a decision victory over Radeat in February 2026, where he captured the ISKA Muay Thai Flyweight World Title.
Despite his form, Smith struggled to match De Leu’s consistency over the five rounds.
Speaking after the fight to Kevin Noone, De Leu reflected on the achievement “I'm feeling great you know, I worked hard for this, and tonight was my moment and I won the fight, it's a great feeling.”
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