WBC back ref in row over Eggington win

Eggington after win…there will be no rematch. Pic: Lawrence Lustig/Boxxer

SAM Eggington has, in the words of his manager, been “vindicated” after officials upheld the bloody victory he gained over Lee Cutler.

Following a review, governing body the World Boxing Council agreed with referee Mark Bates. Cutler’s head caused the damage that ended the contest.

Therefore, with Stourbridge light-middle Sam gashed and unable to continue, Mr Bates was correct to go to the scorecards after eight rounds.

 Cutler’s manager, Jake McGuigan, protested punches inflicted the injury that ended matters on the April 20 Resorts World show. If that was the case, the Bournemouth boxer, who was defending his WBC silver international belt, should’ve been declared winner.

He lodged an official appeal that has now confirmed what Eggington’s manager Jon Pegg stated from the start of the spat.

The cut WAS opened by a punch, but worsened to the point where Eggington could no longer continue by Cutler’s head.

The WBC will not call for a rematch.

“It wasn’t one head clash,” Pegg said today. “It was numerous head clashes.

“In a way, I’m glad they (Cutler’s team) did an appeal because of all the silly fans who said it was not fair. It’s been reviewed by a panel and everyone can see their actions.

“Those fans should remember Cutler was the home fighter, he was the champion. And yes, if you look at some of the comments on social media we do feel vindicated.”

A WBC special review panel today stated: “The WBC…confirms the rule and the correct handling of the situation. A legal punch followed by accidental head butt results in a technical decision.”

The panel explains: “The original cut was confirmed by the referee to have been caused by a legal punch.

“The fight was tough with multiple accidental head clashes. The cut was worsened by at least one accidental head clash. The referee acknowledged the accidental head clash.

“The referee brought Eggington for a doctor’s assessment who indicated the cut was dangerous and severe enough to stop the contest, which the referee accepted.

“The official result was a technical decision in favour of the fighter who was ahead on the scorecards.”

That is the final say on an argument that has simmered since the battle.