Clinton Woods demonstrated an outstanding performance to astound Glen Johnson that consisted of great bravery, heart, determination and talent. Woods held onto his IBF light heavyweight title on Saturday night after a split decision in Bolton.
Champion of the World, Woods, looked to be taking quite a beating in the ninth round when Johnson, who looked to be tiring, unexpectedly produced a spectacular outbreak of devastating punches. 34 year old Woods was evidently shaken, but he soon recovered to get the better of Johnson in the final three rounds.
It was a particularly sweet triumph for Woods seeing he had failed to beat the 37-year-old Jamaican twice in previous attempts. “Since winning the world title and fulfilling my dream, the only thing left that I wanted was beating Johnson and I did it,” said Woods after the fight. “He hit me with some big shots in the ninth round. He is so awkward to fight against. He’s been a great champion. I’m just happy with the win.” Johnson was noble in defeat; even though he was convinced he should have been crowned the victor of the bout. “I truly believe I won the fight,” he said. “There were some close rounds in there. Clinton won some rounds but for the most part they were close rounds.” Johnson started the fight with his usual speedy tempo; governing the first round, but Woods came back brilliantly with great purpose. The 34-year-old, with Ricky Hatton as one of his corner men, started to hurt Johnson with his uppercuts and the crowd sensed victory for the Sheffield man.
Predictably, neither fighter could keep up the vicious tempo of the opening rounds, but it looked to be Johnson who was suffering the most until a dangerous ninth round for Woods. However, after Woods had endured it, it became quite clear that the older man had finally burnt out. After the bout Woods was awarded a split decision – well done Clinton, we knew you could do it. After his third title defence it appears he may be fighting in the states sooner rather than later.
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