WBO super-middleweight ruler “King” Arthur Abraham was pushed to the wire by Liverpool’s Paul Smith back in September, with Abraham retaining his title via a decision that was universally looked at as far too wide. The 12-round unanimous decision proved so controversial, the WBO launched an investigation – the 119-109 tally handed in by Spanish judge Fernando Laguna being of particular interest to the governing body.
In the end, though, the decision stood – as it was felt the right man won the fight even if it was closer than the three judges had it. Smith’s appeal to be made the WBO mandatory was unsuccessful, but Abraham has decided to give Smith a return chance all the same. The fight is scheduled to take place at The O2 Arena in Berlin on February 21 and it is possible British heavyweight David Price – who had to pull out of his scheduled December 6th bout with a bicep injury – will also see action on the card.
“Tickets for my fight will be available on my website from Monday. Loads booked already! Gonna be another boss away day! #UnfinishedBusiness,” the British fighter tweeted.
32-year-old Smith, 35-4 (20), boxed better than ever before in September and it will be interesting to see if he can go one better and get the win this time. 34-year-old Abraham, 41-4 (28) will no doubt enter the rematch as a big favourite to win.
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