Toney Outpoints Jirov!

It's safe to say we have a frontrunner for 2003's fight of the year. James "Lights Out" Toney, 66-4-2 (42) won a wide margin unanimous decision over previously unbeaten cruiserweight king, Vassiliy "The Tiger" Jirov 31-1 (27). With the win, Toney is the proud owner his third IBF title in three weight divisions. This was without question, the best cruiserweight title fight since Evander Holyfield defeated Dwight Muhammad Qawi in December of 1986. Instant classic are the two words which best describe this thirty-six minutes of give and take action. And in my opinion, this was the defining moment of both boxers careers, thus far. Now the two words that are best for boxing are immediate rematch! Toney walked the walk, and we certainly know he talked the talk. Following his victory, and I'm sure to the surprise of some, Toney displayed impeccable sportsmanship, embracing Jirov and trainer Tommy Brooks.After years of virtual hatred for the former champ, The defensive mastermind told Boxingtalk.com that he respects Jirov. He also said this victory is tops on his career's list of accomplishments. Jirov proved to the world that he is a true champion with a ton of heart. He threw an unbelieveable volume of punches, but Toney's harder punches and defensive wizardry eventually told the story of the fight.

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