Abraham retains WBO super middleweight title on points over Smith

Arthur Abraham retained his WBO super middleweight belt by defeating Paul Smith of England by unanimous decision on Saturday.

The judges awarded it 117-111, 117-111, 119-109 to the defending champion, who dominated the majority of the bout, albeit in the face of a spirited challenge from Smith, who was cheered on by a sizable traveling support.

Abraham's punches seemed more effective, more powerful, and he reasserted his control in a commanding final round, when punishing right blows had the Liverpudlian against the ropes.

The Armenian-born German improved to 41-4 (28 KOs) after making the second defense of the title he won back from Robert Stieglitz by split decision on March 1.

"I love coming here," Abraham said. "It was a great fight. We trained hard. I worked a lot with my jab today."

Smith, who was taking his first shot at a world title, dropped to 35-4 (20 KOs).