British featherweight Lee Selby has recorded a points victory over Fernando Montiel to successfully defend his IBF title.
The Welshman was awarded scores of 119-109, 118-110 and 116-112 respectively, but the verdicts were harsh on Montiel, who seemingly controlled the middle rounds and had left the result in doubt at the final bell.
The opening two rounds were hard to score but Selby attempted to stamp his authority on the bout in the third and fourth as he looked to make an impression on his first appearance in the United States.
A straight right hand had rocked Montiel, but the 36-year-old caused the champion numerous problems during the middle sessions as he frequently connected with left and right hooks.
Selby sustained damage to his right eye, and it appeared as though he was becoming frustrated with the Mexican, who remained undeterred in his search for a fourth world crown at a different weight.
The final six minutes were left open to interpretation, with Selby having more success with his combinations only to be caught by solid shots from Montiel.
As the scores were read out, it was expected that there would only be a round in it either way, with a draw also a realistic possibility, but Selby got the decision with all three officials to leave Arizona with his world title still intact.
Darren Plant
