O’Shaquie Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) is now a two-time world champion.
Foster regained the WBC junior lightweight world title with a split decision victory over Robson Conceição (19-3-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday evening at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.
Two judges scored it 115-113 for Foster, while one scored it 115-113 for Conceição.
Conceição dethroned Foster with a hard-fought verdict in July, prompting the rematch less than four months later. This time, Foster was more aggressive, switching stances in the early rounds and standing his ground to trade body shots in the fourth.
By the seventh, Foster began to wear down Conceição as he asserted himself and pressed forward. The Brazilian fired back, but Foster consistently defended against Conceição’s right hand, countering sharply with a right of his own.
In the tenth, Foster buzzed Conceição with a one-two, but Conceição survived before trading blows in the championship rounds.
Foster said, “Man, he’s a hell of a fighter. His heart is unbelievable. Shoutout to him. He’s got a big heart.”
“I told y’all I was gonna step it up and bring it to him. That was my goal. I still ain’t satisfied with my performance, but I felt like I showed a lot of people my versatility.”
“I want the winner of Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez.”
Conceição said, “I’m happy because I know what I did in the ring. I did a good job, so there’s no reason to be sad. I know the victory wasn’t mine tonight, but I know that I did a good job.”
“If he wants the rematch, I’ll be ready. I gave him a rematch, so I think he should show the same respect to me by giving me the third fight.”