Kambosos claims controversial win
By Adrian Warren
George Kambosos jnr has remained relevant in the lightweight boxing division and added another belt to his collection with a controversial majority points decision over English veteran Maxi Hughes.
One judge scored the fight 114-114 and the other two had it 117-111 and 115-113 in Kambosos’ favour after the bout in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
George Kambosos jnr (left) and Maxi Hughes at the weigh-in before their bout.Credit: Getty Images
The result drew boos from the crowd, with ringside commentators and social media widely favouring Hughes.
The bout was an eliminator for the IBF title held by Devin Haney, who defeated Kambosos in the Australian’s previous two bouts.
With Haney considered likely to move up to junior welterweight, 30 year-old Sydneysider Kambosos could fight No.1 contender Gustavo Lemos of Argentina for a vacant title.
Hughes, who had won his past seven fights, lost his IBO lightweight world title to Kambosos, though that organisation is not considered one of the major governing bodies in the sport.
Kambosos (21-2, 10 KOs) said before the fight he wanted to destroy Hughes (26-6, 5 KOs) but the 33-year-old southpaw fought in smart fashion and never appeared in trouble.
Kambosos landed several single power shots through the fight, but was unable to sustain pressure on the crafty Yorkshireman.
The Australian threw more punches but landed at a lower percentage than Hughes, who countered well and controlled range for most of the fight. Kambosos threw plenty of jabs, but many fell short and didn’t score.
Both men were cut and bloodied in the first half of the fight, Kambosos above his right eyebrow thanks to a Hughes left hand in the fifth round.
A cut opened up above Hughes’ right eyebrow in the sixth following an accidental headbutt.
– AAP
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