DUBAI: Pakistan’s professional boxer Mohammad Waseem on Friday won the 10th professional bout of his career, outclassing Mexico’s Ganigan Lopez in an intense battle of eight rounds at Ceasars Palace in Dubai.

The 32-year-old Waseem, who possesses a magnificent career record of 9-1, was brimming with confidence as he entered the ring to face his 38-year-old Mexican opponent — a former world champion — and remained in control throughout the bout in super flyweight bout.

The Pakistani boxer, who’s also known as ‘Falcon’, was declared winner unanimously at the end of eighth round. All of the judges gave their verdict in favour of Waseem and he was adjudged 77-75 by Yuji Fukuchi and Ahmed Gharib, while Gary Kitanoski gave him 80-73 points.

This was 10th professional title of Waseem, who had defeated Conrado Tanamor of the Philippines at the same venue in September. Waseem’s latest win, at the Rotunda Rumble, gains him ranking points to make his way clear for the title fight.

The Quetta-born Waseem was also encouraged by the presence of former world champion Amir Khan who flew from the UK to Dubai to cheer for the Pakistani boxer. Amir entered the ring to congratulate him as soon the referee announced his decision.

Published in Dawn, November 24th, 2019