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Fight turns into farce as Holyfield takes title

In what was billed as a fight but proved to be a farce, Evander Holyfield was given the World Boxing Association heavyweight crown, leaving fellow American John Ruiz disappointed and disgusted.

Though Ruiz dominated throughout, against a lethargic Holyfield, the latter was given the palm by the three judges. Home judges Duane Ford and Dave Moretti scored it 114-113 for Holyfield, while Fernando Viso gave it 116-112.

Holyfield became the first ever four-time world heavyweight champion in boxing history following the controversial win -- but the widespread perception was that the three judges had got together to save him from defeat.

"It was a robbery without a gun," Ruiz said later. "I don't know what they were seeing. It might be the fight before or the fight after. They weren't watching me and Holyfield, though."

Holyfield, the better drawing card, was outfought in the bout, but the win left him in position for big-money fights and possibly a third matchup with Mike Tyson. Interestingly, Ruiz and Holyfield share a promoter -- the controversial Don King.

Though Holyfield has been talking of retirement, an agreement is likely to be signed later this month, that will see him fight in China in defence of his title.