Campbell Wins But Still Loses Titles

Lightweight Nate Campbell has to work hard in claiming a majority decision against South Africa’s Ali Funeka in Florida. The American had been due to defend his WBA, IBF and WBO titles against Funeka but was stripped of all three belts for failing to make the weight on Friday. Campbell floored Funeka twice but could not finish off his durable opponent. One judge scored the bout 113-113 while the remaining two favoured Campbell by scores of 115-111 and 114-112.

“This guy was tough,” said the 36-year-old Campbell. “He could punch, take a shot.” Campbell waited almost a year to defend the WBA, IBF and WBO titles he won with a stunning upset of the previously unbeaten Juan Diaz last March only to lose them all before the fight even took place. Funeka would have claimed them had he won, but they are now vacant. Campbell says he now plans to move up a division in weight, this now leaves 3 belts up for grabs and could see Bristish fighter Amir Khan get his world title shot even sooner. Don’t be surprised if his fight with Barrera is bumped up to world title status.