The Andrade game plan was to overpower the expected stick, move and counter Stieglitz with a non-stop aggressive approach - and then the opening bell it’s quickly a “Katie bar the door” barn burner. Edge to Andrade in a spirited beginning to a hotly contested battle of wills and stamina. 

Stanza two a flat out furious three minutes of exchanges - the Russian to Germany transplant is bloodied by Andrade uppercuts but stands his ground.

Come round four it’s Stieglitz working from the outside with good results, but Andrade was not to be denied while proving the stronger of body and mind - and from stanza five to what would be the closing number eight he would impose his will on the ever gallant  Russian.

The big finish began with a monster right hand flush on the jaw that had Stieglitz briefly turning away but finding no safe haven - he then was battered by Andrade sensing a kill - enter referee Ray Corona to the rescue at 2:53 of the round. >

Closing comments: The win a big one for Andrade who goes to a now 27-1, 21 KOs with a shot at IBF title holder Lucian Bute - the single loss on the résumé to Mikkel Kessler by decision in March of 2007. A young veteran of age 29 with as big a heart and strong willed as they make them. Short on technique, but like that proverbial energizer bunny, come what may he keeps on running.
                                Stieglitz now drops to 31-2, 19 KOs - but can keep his head held high on return trip to home base. Dug deep from start to finish before the bottom fell out in number eight. Tried surprise opening round willingness to swap power punches at close quarters - paid dearly with blood, and stamina sapping results. Along with well earned stipend, the still young age 26 Russian displayed true valor in superb albeit losing effort.