Ruslan Chagaev v Nikolai Valuev
Ruslan Chagaev v Nikolai Valuev
The Uzbek fighter was too tough for his seven foot Russian opponent in Stuttgart on Saturday night, who toiled despite his considerable height and weight advantage.
One judge called the fight a draw but Chagaev got the verdict of the other two officials by a 115-113 and 117-111 margin.
Valuev was generous in defeat and did not contest the decision.
“The verdict is right,” said the Russian. “I have always been diplomatic towards my opponents and the better fighter won tonight.
“I made a lot of mistakes. He deserved to win, that’s the truth, but I will come back.”
Chagaev was elated with the win, saying: “I have accomplished my goal.
“Lots of journalists said I had no chance because he is so big and tall, but I proved them wrong. I am small but I am vicious.”
