(JAN 18) Last night in Düsseldorf, Germany, Ina Menzer, 125¾, retained her WIBF/WBC belts by defeating Esther Schouten, 125¾,  by a 10-round unanimous decision. Judges scores: 98-96, 97-93, and 97-93.

Those who expected a great championship fight between Menzer and Shouten, were not disappointed.

The two top class boxers made the best possible advertising for women's boxing, showing very good skills and determination, in a close, high paced fight. The early rounds in particular, were very even and both women got through with some telling right hands.

Schouten's best round was the 2nd, but she received her payback in the 3rd, when Menzer got her right hand going. The WBC rules stipulates, that the score must be announced after the 3rd and the 6th round. Menzer was ahead by 29-28 after the first three and she had doubled her lead to 58-56 after the sixth.

Shouten had increasing problems in finding her range and catching her opponent in later rounds, while Ina Menzer skills as a counter puncher became more evident.

The Dutch corner released the point deficit had grown too big, and told Shouten to go after a knockout in the last two rounds, but this was easier said than done against a both technical and tactical proficient boxer like Menzer.

Despite the defeat, Schouten was able to prove, that she is back at the top of women's boxing, after winning her far more important fight against cancer. This was her 5th fight after her recovery from her serious illness. Video

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