Berlin, Mar 16: IBF super-middleweight champion Sven Ottke of Germany also claimed the WBA belt by winning a split decision over holder Byron Mitchell of the US in a close bout. Ottke, 35, became the first German to simultaneously hold a title for two major organisations. He has now won all 30 of his professional fights after a long amateur career. Mitchell, 29, now has a professional record of 25 wins, two losses and a draw. Two of the judges gave Ottke a two-point advantage while the other had Mitchell four points ahead after 12 close rounds. The German used his speed and skills to counter his more powerful American opponent.
Bureau Report