Popular Long Island light heavyweight contender Joe Smith Jr. (23-2-0, 19 KOs) gritted his way through Saturday’s ten round battle with Sullivan Barrera (20-1-0, 14 KOs) after suffering a broken jaw early in the 2nd round. Even with a broken jaw, Smith Jr. dug deep to fire away at the skilled Barrera until the final bell, in which he ultimately fell short by scores of 96-93 and 97-92 twice. In his only other previous loss, Smith also suffered a broken jaw against Eddie Caminero five years ago.

“After spending part of Saturday night at the UCLA Medical Center, Joe will have surgery later this week in New York and we’ll know more then about a time frame for his full recovery. We congratulate Sullivan Barrera on his victory,” said Smith’s promoter Joe DeGuardia.