Contentious Weigh-in for David Malul and Lucien Hannah

David Malul was ready to weigh-in today ahead of his pro debut, but was made to briefly wait as Lucien Hannah's weight caused some controversy. Before the weigh-in, Malul had just completed the physical exam where his condition and cognitive fitness were tested to make sure he was capable of fighting tomorrow at the Paramount Theater in Huntington, New York.

"King" David was set to weigh-in but couldn't since no one from Hannah's camp was in the room. A NYSAC official claimed Hannah and his team had arrived ten minutes late. When Hannah entered the room, he was ushered to the scale for an unofficial weigh-in. He was forced to strip naked while officials held up a towel to provide a modicum of modesty for the fighter representing Catskill, New York.

Hannah came in overweight, so an official declared the contract needed to be amended to 150 pounds. Hannah was then asked to step back on the scale with his shorts on, which seemed to annoy matchmaker Ron Katz. Katz exclaimed that since Malul's side didn't care about the extra weight, it was needlessly nitpicky to make Hannah step on the scale again. The NYSAC official was adamant about following protocol. Both sides' position seemed quite reasonable- Katz protecting the fighter while NYSAC adhering to the rules- but it led to some raised voices and heightened tension in the room.

Hannah's weight was finally announced as 149.2 pounds. Malul came in at a fit 146.6 pounds. The two shook hands amicably after the face-off. Of the commotion at the weigh-in, David told The Jewish Boxing Blog, "The plan stays the same. I'm focused, ready, and nothing's going to distract me from handling business in the ring." Afterwards, he downed some soup and pasta to refuel before fight night.

This bout is set for four rounds. It will be streamed on Star Boxing TV. Read The JBB's preview of the fight here.

David Malul and Lucien Hannah face off