Boxing News: Alex Arthur Wins European Title

Alex Arthur defeated Boris Sinistin via unanimous decision tonight at the Meadowbank Arena in Edinburgh, Scotland to win the European (EBU) Super Featherweight title. Arthur also holds the British and Commonwealth titles. Arthur dominated most of the action, though he was required to ride through a few rocky moments along the way.

Arthur was boxing well and catching Sinistin with combinations as early as the second round, and the Scot came out in the third round behind a purposeful attack. Arthur continued to enjoy success through the early part of round three, but then his right eye was cut near the end of the round, courtesy of a Sinistin left hook, which the Russian followed up with a big right hand.

Arthur appeared shaken by the time the third frame ended, and Sinistin was able to seize the initiative in the fourth.

By the fifth round Arthur had regained his composure and was boxing behind his jab to good effect.

A clash of heads in the sixth round led to a cut over Arthur's left eye. Despite having sustained two cuts, Arthur was well in control of the action by the mid-point of the fight.

Through the seventh, eighth and ninth rounds, Arthur’s full arsenal was on display and Sinistin was beginning to fade. As the fight entered the championship rounds, Arthur was looking for a knockout to send his hometown fans – who cheered the challenger throughout the night – happy, and he came close to sending his Russian adversary out on his shield.

A left hand sent Sinistin to the canvas in the twelfth round, but the Russian took his time to rise, helping him to greet the final bell on his feet. There was no doubt, though, about the outcome of the fight. Arthur was awarded the decision by the three judges by scores of 119-108, 119-108 and 118-109.

Following the fight, Frank Warren indicated the cuts Arthur sustained – one to each eye – could delay Arthur’s ascent up the super featherweight ladder. Despite the news, it was a good night for Alex Arthur.