By Miguel Maravilla at ringside
Photos: Sumio Yamada

WBC super featherweight champion Miguel “El Alacran” Berchelt (32-1, 28 KOs) scored a twelve round unanimous decision over former world champion number and one contender Takashi Miura (31-4-2, 24 KOs) on Saturday night at The ‘Fabulous’ Forum in Inglewood, California. Berchelt got off to a fast start as he dropped Miura with a 1-2 combo in the opening round. Working off the jab Berchelt boxed as Miura stalked. The jab worked effectively for Berchelt as he blinded Miura and followed up with big shots but the Japanese fighter landed some thudding punches.

The Mexican landed a huge right in round eight. Shortly after Miura landed a rabbit punch on Berchelt. Heading into the championship rounds Berchelt fought conservatively keeping his distance utilizing the jab frustrating Miura. The final round saw the two trading in center ring. In the end, the judges scored the bout 120-109, 119-108, and 116-111.

“I knew this fight was going to be won with intelligence,” Berchelt said. “Miura is a warrior, and fought till the end. Miura has the toughest left hand in the division. He kept coming forward, and when he connected his punches, they did hurt. I knew I was going to fight an ex-world champion, so I prepared myself well. I have proven that I am the best by taking on the two toughest champions in the division with Vargas and Miura. I am ready to fight anyone.”

“Berchelt was a smart fighter,” Miura said. “He did not allow me to get my distance.”