Boxing: IBF orders bantamweight rematch

LAS VEGAS: The International Boxing Federation (IBF) ordered a rematch between former champion Joseph Agbeko and Abner Mares, who dethroned the Ghana-born fighter in a controversial decision on Saturday. The IBF has given the two fighters until December 14 to stage the rematch. Mexico’s Mares won the IBF bantamweight title and remained unbeaten as a professional after being awarded a majority decision by three judges. However, the fight included numerous low blow punches by Mares, who did not have any points deducted despite receiving five warnings from referee Russell Mora.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 18^th, 2011.