Andrian punches his way to world class
Andrian punches his way to world class
JAKARTA (JP): Andrian Kaspari scored an emphatic win over Russia's Alexander Tiranov Thursday night, earning him the International Boxing Federation Intercontinental bantamweight title.
It was just 49 seconds into the third round of Thursday's international bout in Surabaya, East Java, when a quickly-slicing uppercut from Andrian hit the uncovered jaw of the Russian title holder.
Andrian rushed into a wobbling Tiranov for a series of follow- up punches. The defending champion fell into the ropes without returning a single blow. Referee Yopie Lemahelu had no choice but to stop the bout.
The short work stretched Andrian's unbeaten career record to 10, all won by going the distance.
The bout capped a sparkling night for Indonesian boxers who were fighting in front of IBF president Robert Lee.
Ajib Albarado went home with the vacant World Boxing Federation junior welterweight championship belt with a unanimous point decision win over Dindo Canoy of the Philippines.
On another card, Ricky Matulesi outscored South African Shakhumzi Magxwalisa to retain his IBF Intercontinental junior bantamweight. Earlier, Nurhuda also made a successful title defense attempt, racking up more points over another South African Vuyusile Tinga in their 12-round junior featherweight bout.
Promoter Herry Sugiarto, who managed to invite ex-IBF heavyweight champion George Foreman to watch a bout in Surabaya last July, said that the time has come for Andrian to join the rankings of the world elite.
"I will spar Andrian with the IBF contender number two or three as a test before moving up to the world title bout," said Herry, popularly called Aseng.
Herry said that IBF president Lee would give Andrian the title shot. "Lee welcomes Andrian's world championship fight anytime and anywhere," Herry was quoted by Antara as saying.
Noted boxing observer Syamsul Anwar agreed with Herry, saying that Andrian needs more experience before bidding for the world championship. "He's a great talent and he deserves the prestigious bout, but he has to prove it in a few fights against tough opponents," he said. (amd)