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Calzaghe reigns in Cardiff

04/11/2007

Joe Calzaghe beat Mikkel Kessler by a unanimous points decision in Cardiff last night to become the undisputed super middleweight world champion.

The Welshman was forced to work hard for the victory in front of 50,000 home fans but eventually took the bout 117-111, 116-112 (twice) on the judges' score cards.

Calzaghe seemed to have knocked down Kessler in round three but the referee correctly ruled it a slip to the disappointment of the expectant crowd.

Kessler proved to be a strong opponent and held the upper-hand in the early rounds of the bout. He caught Calzaghe with a big right hand in round four and rocked the Welshman twice in round five.

An uppercut from the Dane shook Calzaghe and Kessler followed it up with a powerful left hand but the veteran coped with the onslaught and came back with a vengeance.

Calzaghe was able to change the momentum of the fight in round six and landed some nice combinations at the start of round seven, although Kessler was able to land a heavy blow to counter the 35-year-old's attack.

The bout was a contrast in styles, Calzaghe picking off shots and working in quick spells while Kessler was always primed, looking for a big knockout blow.

It was Calzaghe's technique which proved to be the best as the fight wore on. The Welshman continued to work his opponent into difficult positions from where he could launch attacks.

Rounds nine, ten and 11 clearly went the way of the Newbridge fighter as Kessler retreated. Calzaghe landed some excellent shots but could not knock his man out.

The champion then closed the fight out in style, attacking on the front-foot as the bell rang to signal the end of the contest. He immediately celebrated a famous victory.