Photos: Andrew Dobin/Minneapolis Armory

In a clash for the vacant WBC super middleweight title, former champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (33-1-1, 24 KOs) won by ten round technical split decision over Avni Yildirim (21-2, 12 KOs) on Saturday night at the Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was a close fight. Dirrell suffered a cut over his left eye in round seven. The bout was halted in the tenth round due to the cut (which didn’t seem that bad). Scores were 96-94, 96-94 Dirrell, 98-92 Yildirim.

“I was upset with the stoppage because I wanted finish the fight like a champion,” said Dirrell. “It feels great getting my WBC belt back. We want to unify against Caleb Plant or any of the champions. I’m just going to go home, take some time, talk to my camp and then we’ll go from there. If the Benavidez fight comes calling then I’ll fight him.

“I thought I was winning this fight by more than what the judges had,” added Dirrell. “I was jabbing him and he was applying some pressure, but that’s just what he does. I won the fight though and that’s all that matters.”

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