Legendary heavyweight champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (49-10-2, 27 KOs) nearly did it again on Saturday night, losing a controversial majority decision to WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai “The Russian Giant” Valuev by majority decision on Saturday at Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland.
The-46-year-old Holyfield mostly stayed on the outside to avoid the massive wingspan of the seven-foot Valuev (49-1, 34 KOs), but when he was in punching range it was Evander landing more power punches. Holyfield was in command for most of the rounds.
Entering round twelve, Valuev’s cutman Malcom Garrett loudly urged Valuev “You’d better knock this guy out!” It didn’t happen, but Valuev survived 114-114, 116-112, and 115-114. Valuev must now face WBA champion in recess Ruslan Chagaev by summer.
I personally think Holyfield got robbed, the commentators where shocked when they announce the winner.
In the sixth round, even ringside commentator Al Bernstein had seen enough, calling Valuev’s performance up to that point “the worst I’ve ever seen.” And he wasn’t far off, especially when describing someone who was calling himself a “champion.”
“I can’t be disappointed in what I did in the ring,” said Holyfield. “I felt that I did what was necessary, but the judges score the fight.”
Mads Larsen (51-2, 38 KOs) proved he is the second best Danish super middleweight (assuming that reigning WBA champion Mikkel Kessler is #1) with an impressive seventh-round TKO over former kickboxing star Roberto Cocco (9-3, 5 KOs) of Italy. Larsen set the picture from round one, peppering the tough guest with his sharp right jab. In the middle rounds, the Dane started to throw more southpaw hooks and crosses and Cocco’s face began to redden. In round six, Larsen increased the tempo of the fight. The end came at the second minute of the seventh round after a huge left by Larsen, which pinned the Italian to the ropes with no defense until the black towel of his corner came flying into the ring. Impressive win for WBA #6, WBC #13 and IBF #15 Mads Larsen..