LOS ANGELES — Abner Mares knocked down Jesus Cuellar in the 11th round and hung on for a split-decision victory Saturday night to claim Cuellar's WBA featherweight title.
Mares (30-2-1) earned his fourth world title in three weight classes with a resourceful performance against Cuellar (28-2). The powerful Argentine champion hadn't lost in 11 fights since October 2011, but Mares punctuated his effort with a big right hand early in the 11th round, sending the champion sprawling onto his backside.
Two judges favored Mares 117-110 and 116-111, while a third scored it for Cuellar, 115-112. The Associated Press scored it 115-112 for Mares.
Jermall Charlo also defended his IBF 154-pound belt with a fifth-round stoppage of previously unbeaten Julian Williams at the downtown Galen Center on USC's campus.
Join the Discussion:
Check this out for a full explanation of our conversion to the LiveFyre commenting system and instructions on how to sign up for an account.
Full comments policy