Arthur Abraham defeated Martin Murray to retain his WBO super-middleweight title by split decision. Three American judges scored the bout 115-112 (Abraham), 112-115 (Murray) and 116-111 (Abraham). The fight was Murray’s fourth attempt to land a world title and he once again came up short.
Murray settled into the fight quickly and was doubling his jab up as early as the second round, managing to keep Abraham on the back foot. The St Helens man was roared on by passionate supporters who had travelled over to Germany to support him.
Abraham brought himself some time at the end of the third by claiming a low blow and began to bring himself back into the fight. Murray held Abraham every time ‘King Arthur’ looked to unload and the experienced champion made sure the referee was aware of this.
Abraham stepped up his work in the 5th round and landed with some quality shots. His confidence was growing and he remained in control in the 6th round landing with some solid single shot rights.
Murray was giving his all but was losing his way in the middle rounds and simply not doing enough to sway the judges. He pulled himself back into the contest in the 8th round, landing with a huge right that shook Abraham up badly. Murray didn’t jump on him though and the champ recovered well. This was a key moment in the fight. Once Murray knew he had the power to trouble Abraham he should have been all over him in a heartbeat.
Murray worked the body well in the 9th but Abraham had his own success and the vocal home support were on their feet every time the champion unloaded. As the fight entered the crucial championship rounds, Murray was deducted a point for holding in the 11th. He had been warned several times earlier in the contest. The tough Brit gave his all in the final round and raised his hands as heard the final bell. However, the judges gave the decision to Abraham and there were no real complaints from the Murray camp.
Murray didn’t disagree himself and to get the nod out in Germany was always going to be a tough ask. He can come again but how many more chances will he get. The St Helens man will be hoping it is a case of fifth time lucky.
– Thomas Flower / @ThomasFlower
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