Rendall Munroe's dreams of a first world title win were dashed this morning in Tokyo when he was absolutely outclassed by Toshiaki Nishioka. Although Munroe dominated the centre of the ring, he was picked off easily by the "Speed King" who's classy combinations left Munroe looking awkward and slow. Munroe walked forward for the entire fight forcing the Japanese man onto the backfoot which many felt was his best chance of winning. However, Munroe didn't throw any were near enough punches and although a lot of the champion's punches were blocked early on, he was catching the eye of the judges and outworking Munroe.
I gave Munroe only one round, number 4, when it really looked like Nishioka had run out of steam. Round 5 saw Munroe in trouble with a big left hand landing to the temple. The champion absolutely dominated the remaining rounds, hammering in body shots which seriously hurt Munroe. The Englishman ended round 8 with a nasty cut under his eye. In rounds 10 and 11 Nishioka, with the fight already won on the cards, went for the knockout leaving Munroe clinging on, deperate to see out the fight. In round 12 Munroe showed real heart as he came out swinging but he ended up being hurt again as the champion landed stylish combinations with ease.
In the end the judges scored the fight 119-109 which was the correct score. Munroe should be commended for his heart and grit but it's hard to see where he can go from here. He really looked out of his depth and it may have have to be admitted that he is European class, not world class. He was horrendously outclassed here.
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