Classy Khan keeps belt

Bolton boxer goes 12 rounds for the first time as a professional

Last updated: 3rd February 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Classy Khan keeps belt

Khan: Comfortable win

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Amir Khan retained his Commonwealth lightweight title with a comprehensive points win over Gairy St Clair at the ExCel Arena in London.

The Bolton boxer dominated the former IBF world featherweight champion from start to finish, winning comfortably on the judges' scorecards.

Although it was the first time he has been taken the distance, Khan never looked in danger of suffering a first professional defeat in his 16th outing.

While he may have sensationally stopped Graham Earl in 72 seconds last time out this performance was far more impressive considering the caliber of opponent.

Durable opponent

St Clair, who turned 33 on Saturday, had never been stopped in a 47-fight career that had included contests against Diego Corrales and Vivian Harris.

The gutsy Guyana-born Australian citizen did his best to upset Khan, marching forward and enjoying some limited success, particularly with his arching overhand right.

He even managed to open up a cut on his opponent, although the blood coming from a gash above the champion's left eye seemed to be caused by an accidental clash of heads.

In contrast, Khan's classy combination punching left St Clair with a bloody nose and at times suggested he would be able to stop his durable rival.

In the end he had to settle for a points victory, all three judges at ringside scoring it 120-108 to the British 21-year-old, meaning he had taken all 12 rounds.

Domestic dust-up

Michael Jennings got the better of Ross Minter in an early candidate for domestic fight of the year on the undercard.

The Chorley-born fighter kept hold of his WBU welterweight belt with a ninth-round stoppage of the brave challenger.

Jennings, beaten just once in his career, had appeared set for a quick finish when he wobbled Minter in the opening round.

The 29-year-old from Crawley managed to overcome the early setback - and a bad cut to his left ear - before eventually losing late on, his corner throwing in the towel as he took heavy punishment.

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