Chris Byrd Vs Vitali Klitschko - Round 1

Tags:: Byrd Versus Klitschko Round 1 Boxing Fighting Knockouts

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Updated: 02-Sep-07
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April 1, 2000
Berlin, Germany
The dubious WBO heavyweight title has once again changed hands. The crown that once worn by Tommy Morrison, Michael Bentt, and Herbie Hide, now rests with American Chris Byrd.

The 8-to-1 underdog Byrd, Flint, Michigan, captured the WBO title when the former heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko quit on his stool after nine full rounds. The former Russian amateur star originally from Kiev in the Ukraine, complained that he had injured his left shoulder earlier in the bout and was unable to continue.

Despite clearly controlling the fight and leading on all three judges scorecards, 89-82, 88-83, 88-83, Klitschko maintained the pain in his shoulder was so severe he was worried about further injury.

After the third round I had a problem [injured shoulder]," Klitschko said following the disappointing defeat. "I couldn't withstand the southpaw. There was an old injury but it didn't inflict [impact] the fight.

"I guess his shoulder went out but I was coming on," Byrd proclaimed after the victory. "I feel he was outboxing me a bit but I just kept coming on."