Sonny Bill Williams went the distance and won on a points decision in his WBA International Heavyweight title bout against veteran Francois Botha. The clash ended controversially as it was reduced from twelve to ten rounds shortly before the end.
Williams, now unbeaten in six fights, was better overall but 44-year old Botha, who has fought the likes of Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis, and Evander Holyfield, landed some punishing blows at the end as gutsy Williams somehow managed to stay standing.
While Botha can’t argue that Williams got the better of him points wise, he was unhappy with the sudden change of script as the fight was sanctioned for twelve rounds.
“You know I love Sonny Bill, I think he’s a great guy, a gentleman, but this was bullshit,” said Botha, who won over the Brisbane crowd with his candor. He also called for a rematch.
“A rematch — if he can beat me he can go on, but if he doesn’t he should throw in the towel.”
Williams will now focus on his upcoming season in League with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL.
The fight was the main event on a night that included an undercard fight between Quade Cooper and insurance salesman Barry Dunnett. You can view the Quade Cooper fight highlights here.
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