In what seems to be a reoccurring theme in boxing, South Africa’s Ali Funeka (30-2-3, 25 KO's) was at the wrong end of a horrendous decision after his title fight IBF lightweight for the vacant IBF crown, against Joan Guzman (29-0-1, 17 KO’s) of the Dominican Republic who was rendered a majority draw. The unusually tall lightweight Funeka used a solid jab and a thunderous right hand to control the fight beginning in the third round, leaving Guzman’s face bloodied and bruised.
The live audience in Quebec City voiced their displeasure as the scores were read. This was Funeka’s second shot at a title; in his last outing he dropped a close decision to former lightweight champion Nate Campbell. The scores were 116-112 for Funeka and 114-114, 114-114; the title which should belong to Funeka will remain vacant.
Boxing promoter Lou DiBella who has no financial interest in either fighter called it one of the five worst decisions he has ever seen.
By Don Palacas
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