- Nicola Adams just about retained her WBO world title against Maria Salinas
- The British fighter received a slice of luck as the judges scored the fight a draw
- The Albert Hall crowd booed the verdict, leaving Adams in no doubt who’d won
The Olympic cheers turned to jeers in London as Nicola Adams held on to the world title with which she had been presented outside the ring by the gift of a draw in her first defence.
The Albert Hall crowd left British boxing’s golden girl in no doubt that they believed she had suffered her first defeat at the fists of Maria Salinas.
The boos which greeted the decision were followed by roars of approval for a Mexican who has now been robbed at least twice in four unsuccessful world title challenges.
Nicola Adams retained her world title by the skin of her teeth after a draw against Maria Salinas
The Albert Hall crowd greeted the decision with boos and clearly felt that Adams had los
Adams was saved by one scandalous score of 97-93 in her favour Another judge carded a 95-95 draw, while I concurred with the the third judge’s 96-94 for Salinas.
Britains twice-minted Olympian was seeking to authenticate the WBO world title to which she had been elevated a month ago after the champion suffered recurring injuries.
The 11-months of inactivity while Adams waited for that decision left her vulnerable to the constant attacks from Salinas and she faded badly in the second half of the ten round battle.
It was a rough Friday night out in Kensington Gore. Had it taken place abroad the golden aura would have faded.
But at least Adams fought bravely and survived. That is part of being a champion. As is a little good fortune when you need it.
World champion Adams throws a jab to try and keep the relentless Mexican at bay
The Brit had to dig deep just to get through the 12 rounds on Friday evening in London