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Guzman stays on top after defeating Soto in Atlantic City

WBO junior-welterweight champion Joan Guzman remained undefeated with a unanimous decision over Humberto Soto on Saturday.

Guzman (28-0), from the Dominican Republic, used his slick style and strong defense to gain a 12-round, unanimous decision over Soto (43-6-2) of Mexico, at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa.

Judges Lynne Carter and Jean Williams both favored Guzman at 117-111, while Don Trella had it 118-110. The Associated Press scored it a 114-114 draw.

"I figured it would be a rough fight and it was," Guzman said through a translator. "He's a very strong fighter, but once we got into the ring, I felt like I took him out of his game plan."

For much of the bout, it was a thrilling, action-packed affair which brought out the best in both fighters. Soto, who entered the ring with 15 knockouts among his 20 straight victories, put on the pressure early and kept it there.

Guzman appeared to control the pace for the first half of the fight, much to the delight of the fans who chanted "Gooozman, Gooozman," but he strangely decided to focus more on showboating than fighting for the last three rounds.
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