Akani Sambu retained the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Intercontinental Bantamweight title on Friday night, June 27, in Thohoyandou, South Africa.
Headlining “Survival of the Fittest”, a card promoted by Mama Rocks Boxing Promotions at the Khoroni Hotel Casino, Sambu fended off the challenge of compatriot Sabelo Cebekhulu, winning a controversial split decision.
Sambu started the fight best, flooring Cebekhulu in round two with a left hook, but it was an even fight midway through and when Cebekhulu took over in the second half and returned the favour with a count in round seven, it looked like the decision could go either way.
Judge Phumeza Zinakile scored it 95-93 for the challenger, but he was overruled by judges Mike Phiri and Gezani Hlungwane, who had it 95-93 and a much too wide 97-91 for Sambu.
Sambu improved his pro record to 7-1-1 (3). Cebekhulu falls to 7-2 (3).
