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Wales Online
Wales Online
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Jon Doel

Joe Cordina reclaims world boxing title in epic Cardiff fight

Welshman Joe Cordina is IBF super-featherweight champion of the world once again.

Cordina reclaimed the title that was taken from him by beating Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov on a split decision after 12 bruising rounds at Cardiff International Arena.

The 31-year-old floored his opponent in the second round but the contest became tighter as it went on, with both men inflicting damage.

Cordina took the decision 111-116, 115-112 and 114-113 on the cards.

It means he reclaims the title that was taken from him back in October when he suffered a hand injury that left him unable to fulfil his mandatory defence.

Cordina said after the fight: “I knew he’s a tough fighter. He’s hard, he’s rugged. I’ve left no stone unturned in this camp.

"There’s time in camp where I’ve questioned myself but I’ve answered those questions.

"There was no chance he’s beating me tonight.

"Yeah it was hard, I got through it. I know how tough I am. I know how hard I work. I can box, I can fight, I can do it all.

“That was the thing, I hurt him and thought he couldn’t have recovered. I could hear him making these noises.

"I thought I got him but I’ve gone back out and he’s coming back at me again.

"We know how tough he is. I knew how good I am. If he come on strong, knew I could move him.

"He’s meant to be the bogeyman to everyone in this division. He’s strong, he’s tough but I wanted to show I can stand there and have it with him.”

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