By Steve Kim
Last weekend in Auckland, New Zealand, undefeated heavyweights Joseph Parker and Andy Ruiz battled for the vacant WBO heavyweight title, which was won by Parker with a close, majority decision. The scores were 115-113 (twice) and 114-114.
Parker raised his record to 22-0 with 18 knockouts, while Ruiz fell to 29-1 and 19 knockouts.
Promoter Bob Arum, who now has a promotional interest in both fighters told BoxingScene.com - "I had it even" - when asked about his take on the outcome.
When it comes to Ruiz and his future, the veteran promoter says that despite his first career loss,''We'll get some good fights for him, we build him back up and get him another shot at the title."
Before the fight, it was announced that Top Rank had taken part in a press conference where it was revealed that they had entered into an agreement with Duco Events that would see them co-promote Parker in the United States and China. Arum also made a deal with Duco to co-promote undefeated welterweight contender Jeff Horn, who fought on the Parker-Ruiz undercard.
When asked if Parker's first title defense could be in America, Arum answered - "Probably, yes." But he added - "but we're not doing anything until the end of March. He's fought five times this year and he needs a couple months rest."
Steve Kim is the news editor for BoxingScene.com.
