Vladimir Shishkin Fends Off Former Super Middleweight Champion José Uzcátegui

It wasn't a knockout but still, José Uzcátegui, just couldn't get past Vladimir Shishkin. The unbeaten contender won by scores of 115-113 and 117-111 twice. On a toe-to-toe mentality, the fight opened to a rich Latin cumbia and closed to a Shishkin folk rhythm.

"I came to America, and I've been living here for the last few years, to reach my goal and become a world champion,” said Shishkin. "This is a big step in that direction. It was a big chance for me, and I took advantage of it.”

Uzcátegui and Shishkin both came out aggressive hoping to land strong right hands from close quarters. Compared to Uzcátegui's 43 punches thrown per. round, Shishkin averaged 63 and placed his opponent at 38-20 over the final two frames.

“I think I did enough to win the fight, but the judges didn’t see it that way,” said Uzcátegui “He was clutching and grabbing me and pulling me in, and I was never able to get enough clean shots.”

With a strong finish and victory, and the biggest win of his career, Shishkin now has the fighting chance to challenge for a title at 168 pounds. Earlier during the press conference, he mentioned that Uzcátegui's forward fighting style suits his own. Shortly after, Shishkin also became the International Boxing Federation's second ranked in the super middleweight division.

"I felt in control throughout the fight,” said Shishkin. “I'm on a higher level now, so the fights are going to be tougher. He pushed me hard. It was something new for me.”

"I want all the big names at 168 pounds,” said Shishkin. “Canelo is the champion right now and I'll be ready to give him all he can handle.”