By Eun-sang Cho

Saturday, March 27 2004 
Former WBC Light flyweight champion Yo-Sam Choi lost a narrow split decision to Federico Katubai Saturday night at the 88-Gymnasium in Seoul, South Korea. Katabai (13-7-3, 8 KOs) won by margins of 97-95, 96-95 on two cards, while Choi (now 26-4, 14 KOs) was ahead on the other card 96-94. In other action, Korean flyweight champion Jin-man Chun (5-1) took an eight round technical nod over Ishidro Lolona (12-4). Scores were 77-76, 78-76, 78-76. The card was presented by Gerbuk-Promotions.

　

　Shimada edges Inada to retain Japan lightweight crown

     TOKYO, March 21 – Takehiro Shimada pounded out a 10-round majority decision over previously undefeated Chikashi Inada on Saturday to retain his Japan lightweight title in a highly touted bout.

     It was the 32-year-old Shimada’s fourth successful defense of the title he won in 2002. There were no knockdowns in the fight.

     Fighting before the capacity crowed at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall, Inada tried to prevent Shimada from boring in with his rapier-like left jabs.

     But Shimada, known for his ring savvy, bobbed and weaved his way inside to land effective blows.

     With the victory, Shimada improved his record to 14 wins, including eight knockouts, against three losses and a draw, while it was the 26-year-old Inada’s first loss after winning his first 15 fights, 11 by KO.

     ‘’I’m glad that I’ve been able to beat a strong opponent,’’ Shimada told reporters. ‘’A loss is a loss,’’ Inada said although his handlers complained of what they considered to be an unfair decision.