Huck retains WBO title for record-tying 13th time

German cruiserweight Marco Huck defeated Mirko Larghetti of Italy on a unanimous points decision in Halle, Germany, to retain his WBO belt for a record-equalling 13th time.

The judges scored the fight 116-112, 116-112, 118-110 in favour of the defending champion, who was really only troubled in the seventh and eighth rounds.

The previously undefeated Larghetti was in danger of being knocked out by the 11th. Huck went for it in the final round, which ended with a flurry of punches as the bell was ringing to leave the challenger on the canvas.  Although referee Jack Reiss ruled Larghetti didn't hit the canvas until after the bell sounded to end the fight.

"I respect how my opponent fought. But I deserved to win," said Huck.

The Serbian-born Huck improved his record to 38-2-1 (26 KOs) and equalled the record held by Britain's Johnny Nelson for the most successful title defences in the cruiserweight division.

Larghetti dropped to 21-1 (13 KOs).