Former world champion Billy Dib is recovering after an unexpected ending to his fight with Jacob Ng on Saturday night in Broadbeach, Australia.
Dib won the IBF International and WBO Oriental lightweight titles after Ng was disqualified for an illegal move.
The contest was competitive, with Ng up on all three of the official cards when the fight was called in the sixth round.
Ng was up 50-45, 49-48 and 49-48 at the time of the stoppage.
During the sixth, while the two boxers were engaged in a clinch, Ng practically slammed Dib to the mat with a pro wrestling type of move.
Dib landed hard on his back. He was in obvious pain as the doctor examined him. After being deemed unable to continue, Ng was disqualified.
The 36-year-old was taken to a local hospital, where it was confirmed that a few ribs had dislodged and there were several fractures in the area.
Dib is currently recovering and hopes to return to the ring in the coming months.
“First and foremost I want to thank the Almighty that both Jacob and I are safe. A big thanks you to my team beautiful supporters family and sponsors for your love and support last night," Dib stated on social media.
“I’m currently in hospital with three dislodged rib (sic) that caused 3 separate fractures due to being flipped on the canvas. I’m doing OK and will be back on my feet real soon.
“Jacob is a talented young fighter with great potential and I don’t believe there was malicious (sic) in his actions last night. It was a great fight that I believe was only going to get better towards the later rounds as per our game plan.”
Dib has now won three in a row since getting knocked out by Amir Khan in 2019.