Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
Scot becomes interim lightweight champion
Coatbridge fighter Ricky Burns is the new interim WBO
lightweight champion of the world after a textbook defensive performance over
former two-time belt holder Michael Katsidis at Wembley Arena.
The 28 year-old started well, keeping the Australian at bay
with his jab and continued in the same manor in a disciplined display and
caught the judges eye with the cleaner punches on the night.
Katsidis, 31, looked easy to hit at times and although he
worked for every minute of every round, was denied the decision 117-112 and
117-111 (twice) on the judges’ scorecards to hand Burns the belt.
A couple of the rounds I handed to Katsidis on work rate alone
meaning my card scored it a draw and on reflection, I was maybe a little too keen
to give the hardworking ‘Warrior’ the benefit of doubt despite Burns catching
him with the better shots.
The Scots' victory could see him defend the belt against stablemate Kevin Mitchell at some point in 2012.
The Scots' victory could see him defend the belt against stablemate Kevin Mitchell at some point in 2012.
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