Cologne controversy

"Never make predictions, especially about the future" (Casey Stengel)


So much for my first attempt at a predicition; still at least I picked the correct winner although only just, as Felix Sturm retained his WBA Middleweight title on a controversial split decision over Matthew Macklin


It's hard not to have symapathy for Macklin, he put in an incredible effort, but I had Sturm shading it. As predicted Macklin started very quickly & over the opening two rounds threatened to overwhelm Sturm as the champion seemed taken aback at the ferocity of the attack, his ribcage glowing red as Macklin had notable success with hooks to the body. Sturm seemed unable to keep his challenger off & create the distance needed to utilise his boxing skill, but he gradually began to get through with a few eye catching shots.


While the beginning of the fight undeniably belonged to Macklin, it's the middle & later rounds that are far more contentious. There were doubts about Macklin's stamina but he had obviously put in a huge effort in training as he continued to fire away with both hands up to the end; however his accuracy began to slip & the majority of the blows were being caught on hands & arms. Sturm was far more economical in his work, probably more than he wanted to be as Macklin's work rate made it hard to get his own punches off, but what he did throw was landing & was scoring.


Scoring the majority of the later rounds is difficult as it comes down to what you're looking for; the aggression & determination of Macklin or Sturm's accuracy & skill. The challenger & his team were understandably furious with the decision, there was plenty of support from Macklins' colleagues & friends within British boxing & even the German commentary gave the win to the Birmingham man. Personally I still think Sturm did just about enough to shade it; Macklin threw far more shots but the majority of them were being blocked, especially from the middle rounds onwards. The cleaner work was coming from the champion, his defense was better and I think to win a world title you need a bit more subtlety & skill than Macklin displayed.


The debate over the result is a shame though as it overshadows the fact that it was an excellent fight. Credit due to the referee too for letting them get on with it & not interrupting constantly; a number of the high profile US referees could learn from him.