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)