Promoters Trade Barbs After Controversial Boxing Draw

The aftermath of the split-decision draw between Nikita Tszyu and Ben Mahoney was marked by fiery exchanges between their promoters, overshadowing the boxers' mutual respect. While Tszyu acknowledged Mahoney fought better and Mahoney expressed disappointment with the scoring, the real fireworks occurred ringside and in the press conference.

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I wanna slap the s*** out of someone

George Rose, head of No Limit Boxing, reacted aggressively to comments from Mahoney's corner, reportedly stating, "I wanna slap the s*** out of someone" and challenging hecklers. This outburst came after Mahoney's promoter, Mick Francis, indicated that any rematch would not take place on a No Limit card and vowed to seek an official review of the scoring, particularly criticizing judge Phillip Holliday's 117-111 scorecard for Tszyu.

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We're going to have to look at our [rematch] options; I'm open to it but it sure as hell isn't going to be on another No Limit card.

Mahoney himself expressed frustration, noting the difficulty of accepting a draw when he believed he had won, especially after dedicating significant time to training. He stated that while he is open to a rematch, it would not be with No Limit Boxing. His promoter, Francis, echoed this sentiment, questioning Holliday's scoring and stating his intention to file an official inquiry, believing it would vindicate his fighter.

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I don't want to throw any officials or judges under the bus. But athletes put their lives on the line for this. I just had a baby and have been in the gym for eight weeks of 14 weeks of her life.

No Limit's co-founder Matt Rose defended the company's integrity and welcomed the review, confident it would support their position. He suggested that George Rose's strong reaction was triggered by specific comments made in the ring. The dispute highlights the intense rivalries and high stakes within professional boxing promotion.

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You come in here, your opponent believes you won and you get a draw. It's a hard pill to swallow.