Valuev regains WBA title with points win over Ruiz

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

BERLIN (AFP) — Russian giant Nikolai Valuev regained the WBA heavyweight world title, which he lost last year to Ruslan Chagaev, in a split decision over America's John Ruiz here on Saturday night.

Valuev was awarded the fight by two of the three judges to secure his 49th win, while this was the eighth defeat of 36-year-old Ruiz's 16-year career.

At 2.13m tall and weighing in at 144kg, Valuev was 36kg heavier and dwarfed his American opponent, who had twice previously held the WBA heavyweight crown.

This was the second time the pair have clashed and the second time Valuev has beaten Ruiz on points.

"I was quicker, but he did a good job and he didn't let me fight my usual fight," said the new champion Valuev. "I'd like to box Ruiz again."

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