Post by karlimacalam on Jun 20, 2005 9:24:04 GMT 8
Light heavyweight Antonio Tarver reestablished himself at the top of the 175lb division with a clear cut unanimous decision over Glen Johnson on Saturday night in Memphis.
Tarver tops Johnson in rematch!
Ringside report by Scotti Vandevender
www.ufcfightnews.com
Saturday night at the FedEx forum Antonio Tarver (23-3, 18 KOs) boldly put his fists where his lips have been since his first fight with Roy Jones Jr. in his thrilling victory over “Gentleman” Glen Johnson (40-10-2, 28 KOs). In a tough battle that tested Tarver until the final bell, the new IBO Light Heavyweight champ won over the fans of Memphis, finishing to the cheers of a standing crowd of well over 12,000.
After an initial feeling out round, Tarver came on strong early and surged late to seal a unanimous victory over the ex-champ Johnson.
“It was a tough fight. I think he won. I don’t make any excuses,” stated a disappointed but gracious Johnson. “I just go fight my best. If I win, I win gracefully. If I lose, I lose gracefully. Tonight he ducked under my punches and I could not land my combinations. I welcome the challenge if he wants to fight again,” remarked Johnson when questioned what he thought of the outcome.
“All the credit goes to Glen Johnson. He is truly a warrior. I told Roy (Jones) he was tough as nails after the fight. I hit him with some big shots. He just kept coming,” proclaimed a respectful Antonio Tarver.
When questioned about the future the newly crowned champ stated, “We’ll see what happens. Hopkins says he wants the winner. I think it’s safer for Roy (Jones) to stay behind the microphone, but if he wants it then when can do it. When have two great trilogies in the making with Roy Jones or Glen Johnson. We’ll do whatever the people want to see most,” Tarver stated, punctuated with a broad smile.