By Hilmar Rojas

At the Polideportivo José María Vargas in La Guaira, Venezuela, WBA bantamweight champion Anselmo Moreno (29-1-1, 10KOs) won a controversial twelve round split-decision over previously undefeated interim-champion Nehomar Cermeno (19-1, 11KOs). Judges Uriel Aguilera (114-113) and Nelson Vasquez (115-112) for the champion and judge Levi Martinez saw the interim-champion take it with 115-112. The crowd booed the decision. A rematch is being discussed.

Most of the experts, judges, trainers and ringside reporters had it for Cermeno, who gave Moreno a lot of problems with his style. Cermeno counter-punched well and seemed to win the first six rounds. Rounds seven through ten were more favorable to Moreno, who controlled the distance and demonstrated the ability to stop the attacks of Cermeno 

"I am the winner, although I congratulate Anselmo Moreno because he gave a great battle," said Cermeno. "I feel that I did my job. I followed the order of my corner, and work the strategy. Again, I am the winner, but the judges did not see it that way. Yes Moreno accepted a rematch, but that is now in the hands of my manager. "

Moreno complained about low blows in the post-fight interview and offered praise.

"I thought I was the winner. Cermeno gave a great fight and I'm not against a rematch," Moreno said.

In the co-feature, former super featherweight champion Jorge Linares (28-1, 18KOs) beat Franscico Lorenzo (34-8, 15KOs) with a ten round majority decision. The scores were 97-93, 97-94 and 95-95.

Linares was looking for a big knockout and he couldn't get it. Lorenzo was tough and tested Linares' stamina and mental resolve in the contest. Linares had his best rounds in the fifth, sixth and seventh, when he hurt Francisco but couldn't put him away.

"I thought I won without any problems and proved to my people I'm ready to move forward and regain the world title," Linares said.

Francisco called for a rematch.

"I don't feel like a loser and I would like a rematch with Linares. I made it clear that I'm a world class puncher. Linares has a good style and is very technical," Francisco said.