Suarez absorbs controversial loss

Charly Suarez dropped a controversial technical decision against World Boxing Organization (WBO) super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California on Sunday, May 11 (Manila time).

- By REYNALD MAGALLON

The referee waved off the fight at the start of the eighth round on the recommendation of the ringside physician after Navarrete sustained a bloody cut right above his left eyebrow after what was ruled as an accidental headbutt in the sixth round.

The decision went to the scorecards with judge Lou Moret scoring the bout 78-75 and both Pat Russell and Fernando Villarreal 77-76 all in favor of the Mexican.

It was however an anti-climactic end to the bout that has been thrilling and entertaining from start to finish with both fighters throwing haymakers one after another.