Ayala's tainted triumph

Ayala (r) hammers Johnny Tapia in a previous fight

Hometown favourite Paulie Ayala controversially retained his WBA bantamweight title with a unanimous decision over Mexican challenger Hugo Dianzo.

The official scorecards from judges Gayle Van Hoy, Samuel Conde, and Anibal Miramontes, scored the fight 115-112, and 115-113, twice, in Ayala's favour.

But journalists at the bout at the Fort Worth Convention Centre in Texas were unhappy with the verdict.

And there will be speculation that Ayala's $1m clash with WBA Super-bantamweight champion Clarence 'Bones' Adams was not going to be jeopardised.

Dianzo, an unknown contender with a 26-5-1 (14 KOs) record, took the fight to the hometown hero from the opening bell.

In the fourth round, the champion fell to the canvas courtesy of a Dianzo right hand and a tangle of feet.

Referee Lawrence Cole ruled it a knockdown but it was little more than a stumble.

Dianzo, who finished up the night having thrown 1254 punches (landing 194), scored almost at will with his right hand on Ayala, who could not deal with his long-range tactics.

The Texan (32-1, 12 KOs) did not find his jab until round eight but was able to put together a late rally with some strong body work which saved his crown.

Dianzo wept after the verdict, which was cheered by the 5,000 Texans but jeered by boxing journalists.