Ibragimov beats Holyfield to retain WBO heavyweight crown

MOSCOW, Oct 13 (Reuters) Russia's Sultan Ibragimov won a unanimous decision over former undisputed world champion Evander Holyfield to retain his WBO heavyweight title today.

Holyfield, one week short of his 45th birthday, was bidding to become the oldest world heavyweight champion in boxing history but came up short against his 32-year-old opponent.

Two judges scored the fight 117-111 and one had it 118-110 for the undefeated Russian, who improved his record to 22 wins and one draw, with 17 knockouts.

It was the ninth defeat in 53 fights for the American, who was hoping to win his fifth heavyweight title.

Ibragimov was due to fight WBA champion Ruslan Chagaev on the same card but the Uzbek pulled out of the unification bout after falling ill two months ago and was replaced by Holyfield.

Reuters DKS VP0216