Andrian loses in 12-round IBF bout

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian IBF Continental featherweight boxer Andrian Kaspari bowed out to Fahprakorb Rakkiatgym of Thailand in a 12-round match in Bangkok on Friday evening.

In the match, Andrian lost in points after judge Winai Poodpraw of Thailand gave 117-115 and John Wright of Australia gave 116-115 to the Thai boxer. On the contrary, Indonesian judge Rustam Honowu gave 117-115 to Andrian.

Manager Kasiyan Kaspari said Andrian performed outstandingly in the match as he managed to force Rakkiatgym to run on the ring with his continual uppercut.

"Fahprakorb was bleeding on his nose due to Andrian's uppercuts. He nearly fell in the sixth and eighth rounds but he was lucky enough to be saved by the bell. We suspect the bell was rung before time to save him in the critical situation," Kasiyan said as quoted by Antara.

Andrian's match sparked controversy in Indonesia as the Indonesian Boxing Commission (KTI) had voiced doubt about Andrian's physical condition because he had yet to recover from hepatitis.

KTI sent a letter to the IBF saying the body never issued a recommendation letter for Andrian to fight in Bangkok.

"I had proved that I was healthy and I could fight 12 rounds. This is the answer for the people who hounded me before I competed in Bangkok," Andrian said.

Kasiyan said Andrian's supporting team realized that it would be difficult for him to win in Bangkok.

"We accept that Andrian lost, especially since the match was a part of the commemoration of the Thai king's birthday," he said. "Just because he failed to KO his opponent, Andrian must accept the fact that he lost. I personally think he should have won on points."

He also said Rakkiatgym's promoter had agreed to stage a rematch in Indonesia. (yan)