Fans around the world have expressed their disgust at the scorecards handed in for the contest in Germany on Saturday night, with some high-profile names adding their weight to the argument.
Two-weight world champion and now Showtime analyst Paulie Malignaggi said: “Will they ever do something about these sh** scorecards in Germany? Paul Smith Jnr deserved better last night,” before adding that he thought the Liverpudlian was robbed and the victory for Abraham was a home decision.
Antonio Tarver and ESPN journalist Dan Rafael are just two of the many respected names to air their views on what was a shocking review of a close fight by three paid officials, leading to the WBO’s promise to take another look at the events that took place.
“The WBO is waiting to receive the assigned supervisor’s report and replaying the fight before giving an opinion on Abraham v Smith,” read a WBO statement.
In reacting to the criticism from the boxing community, WBO President Paco Valcarcel added: “When it comes to implantation of rules in boxing, and to further honesty and professionalism, the WBO rather work hand in hand with the Association of Boxing Commissions.”
Smith’s promoter Eddie Hearn is hoping the WBO will stipulate a mandatory return between the two fighters going forward, although Arthur Abraham is already looking towards the winner of November’s all-German clash between old foe Robert Stieglitz and ex-middleweight king Felix Sturm.
Phil Jay is Editor of WBN. An Auxiliary member of the Boxing Writers Association of America. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay.
