Bill Williams vs Paul Gallen

Sonny Bill Williams called out over sad post-fight exit as Paul Gallen dragged into 'bizarre' scenes

Paul Gallen has won a controversial split-decision victory over Sonny Bill Williams in their boxing match and while the pair seem ready to put aside their bad blood it didn't stop the former All Blacks star leaving the ring before being interviewed. Gallen and former rugby union and league player Williams finally settled their differences in the ring on Wednesday with the duo taking part in a scrappy bout in front of thousands of fans.

Williams started the stronger of the two having showcased his reach and superior jab to rough up Gallen's face. However, despite only being two minute rounds, Gallen took advantage of a fatiguing Williams who got a point deducted in the seventh round for repeatedly holding the former Sharks captain in the clinch.

The fight turned into a scrappy bout and Williams' his point deduction ultimately cost him with two judges scoring it 77-74 and 76-75 in favour of Gallen. While a third had New Zealander Williams winning 77-74.

And the controversy started as soon as the cards were read out. Williams was clearly fuming with the decision and stormed out of the ring. Many agreed with the New Zealander he had won the bout, but his decision to leave came as a big disappointment for many in attendance and watching at home considering they would have liked to hear him speak after finally stepping into the ring with Gallen.

Fans paid plenty of money to attend the event at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena, but Williams' swift exit without an interview in the ring left fans wanting more. He also declined to attend the post-fight media conference.

Fans felt it wasn't a good look after all the bad blood overshadowing the bout, which should have happened years ago when both fighters were closer to their prime. The bout drew plenty of criticism with Williams' tactics being questioned with plenty of clinching making for an ugly spectacle. While others felt Williams should have remained in the ring after the defeat.