Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury fight to draw in controversial decision in WBC heavyweight title bout

Boxers
Deontay Wilder On The Left And Tyson Fury On The Right After Exchanging Words At The Conference 

LOS ANGELES — Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury fought to a split decision draw Saturday night in what turned into a wildly entertaining fight.

But the decision was controversial.

Wilder, the 6-foot-7 WBC champion, scored two knockdowns -- one in the ninth round and one in the 12th and final round -- prompting him to shimmy his shoulders in celebration. But it was premature.

Fury, the 6-foot-9 Englishman, picked himself off the canvas at Staples Center and beat the 10-count both times.

The crowd of 17,698, with a heavy presence of British fans, booed long and loudly when the decision was announced. But they cheered often during the fight, especially when Fury used his dodging and ducking and showboating to keep Wilder off balance. 

Judge Alejandro Rochin of the United States scored it 115-111 in favor of Wilder, judge Robert Tapper of Canada scored it 114-112 in favor of Fury and judge Phil Edward of England scored it a 113-113 draw.

"This decision is a joke, Alejandro Rochin better never work another day in his life again in boxing,” Showtime boxing analyst Paulie Malignaggi said after the bout. “I can’t tell you why the result is way it is. I don’t even know what to tell you.”

Wilder, who was 40-0 with 39 knockouts entering the fight, finally landed with his thunderous blows in the late rounds. But after being in control for a majority of the early rounds, Fury managed to survive Wilder’s onslaught to remain on his feet.

The decision certainly sets up a potential rematch.