By Luke Furman
WBO super middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28KOs) is not interested in a rematch with Paul Smith of the UK. Abraham retained his title by winning a twelve round unanimous decision over Smith on Saturday night before 6,000 spectators in Kiel, Germany.
Smith demanded a rematch afterwards, furious over the scoring of the contest - 117-110, 117-110 and 119-109. Fans were upset as well, as most saw the contest as being close, although many are not disputing that Abraham had done enough to get a win.
"I wanted to wear him down and then knock him out, but he can tolerate a lot [of punishment]. It wasn't enough to get a knockout," Abraham said.
"King Arthur," now wants the winner of the duel between Robert Stieglitz and Felix Sturm, who battle in a WBO final eliminator on November 8th in Stuttgart, Germany. Abraham has already faced Stieglitz in three tough battles, holding a 2-1 edge in their trilogy.
"I look forward to the winner and giving them the opportunity to fight for the world title. I will remain as world champion. Up until the end of my career, I will not give up the WBO belt," Abraham said.
Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.
