South Africa’s Simpiwe Konco failed in his bid for the WBC minimumweight belt when he lost on a unanimous 12-round points decision against the unbeaten 54-fight veteran Wanheng Menayothin (Chayaphon Moonsri) from Thailand in Chonburi, Thailand, on Friday.

The scores were 118-109, 117-109 and a rather way out 116-110 in favour of Menayothin, who is currently the longest-reigning world champion.

The 34-year-old Menayothin (54-0; 18) retained the belt for the 12th time

There was very little in it in the first two rounds, with both fighters making a slow start, but from there on the light-punching Menayothin was in control to take a lead of 40-37 and 39-37 twice, when the scorecards were announced after four rounds in terms of the WBC rules.

Through rounds five to eight the slick-moving Menayothin was in control, with Konco, 33, unable to score with any effective punches as he was dropped seconds after the bell at the end of round seven.

The judge’s scores announced after eight rounds were 79-71, 79-72 and 78-72 in favour of the champion.

Unfortunately, even though he was behind on the scorecards Konco failed to lift his game as the champion ran out a clear winner against the so-called mandatory challenger.

Article courtesy of Super Sport