Matthew Macklin: lost on a split decision in Cologne

Birmingham’s Matthew Macklin failed in his brave attempt to claim the WBA middleweight title from veteran champion Felix Sturm in Cologne.

Sturm got the better of a split decision which was probably just about right, two of the judges preferring his quality work to Macklin’s all-action aggression.

The 29-year-old Macklin looked on course for a stunning victory in Sturm’s home town after getting the better of the opening six rounds.

Coming into the fight on the back of a five-year, 11-bout unbeaten run, Macklin looked full of confidence as he dominated with his all-action style.

For his part, the 32-year-old Sturm appeared to be showing signs of age as he absorbed solid punishment in the early exchanges.

Pressure

Macklin’s body shots in particular were doing the damage as Sturm attempted to soak up wave after wave of pressure on his arms and gloves.

But as the fight wore on Sturm gradually began to assert himself.

The former WBO champion, currently in his second spell as WBA champion, was taking part in his 16th world title fight and had clearly paced himself for 12 rounds almost perfectly.

Macklin’s pace dropped after the eighth and Sturm’s quality shots began to catch the eye.

Macklin continued to trade blows but the best punches were coming from the champion.

Sturm finished the fight with an impressive attacking flourish and a packed arena were on their feet to acclaim him the victor.

Shortly afterwards two of the three judges chimed their agreement, scoring the fight 116-12, 116-112 to Sturm, with one judge giving it to Macklin 115-113.

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