The continental bantamweight belt remains firmly around Cristian Zara's waist. On the evening of Friday, September 18, 2026, in the ring set up in Carbonia, the 28-year-old boxer from Sassari successfully defended his European crown by defeating challenger Salvatore Contino via technical knockout in the ninth round. The all-Italian showdown rewarded the greater precision of the reigning champion at the end of an intense, tactically hard-fought bout.
Throughout the bout, Zara set the pace by adopting an orthodox stance, capitalizing on his superior reach and constant mobility to keep his opponent at bay. Contino, a 36-year-old from Palermo who fights out of Rome, tried to close the distance to land sharp combinations, but struggled to breach the Sardinian boxer's relentless barrage of straight punches. The contest remained balanced and deadlocked for several rounds until the sudden turning point in round nine, when Zara found the opening to land an uppercut combination that sent the challenger to the canvas. Getting back to his feet visibly shaken, Contino was met with another flurry against the ropes before the referee stepped in to halt the fight and protect his safety.
The fight night at Grande Miniera and 110 years of the FPI
The bout was the headline event of the card promoted by OPI Since 82 against the striking backdrop of the Grande Miniera di Serbariu. The boxing event, broadcast live on television and streamed on the DAZN platform, was included among the official events celebrating the 110th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Boxing Federation (FPI).
With this stoppage victory, Zara takes a significant step forward in his boxing career, paving the way for potential international opportunities beyond European borders. This victory in the Sulcis ring adds to the proud list of Sassari's sports achievements during an action-packed season filled with major events.