By Ben Jacobs
Last Saturday night’s anticipated rematch between Jamie McDonnell and Liborio Solis ended in unsatisfactory fashion when the fight had to be stopped in the third round due to a cut over McDonnell’s eye. As the cut was caused by an unintentional clash of heads, the fight was declared a no contest as four rounds had not been completed.
The first bout, a year ago and also taking place in Monte Carlo, saw McDonnell win a controversial twelve round decision, which promoted the WBA to order a rematch. Now the future is unknown, as McDonell announced that he intends to move up in weight to pursue another title.
Solís, speaking to BoxingScene.com having arrived back in Panama, was philosophical about the entire incident but does believe McDonnell received what he labelled “protection”.
“Of course, his corner wanted the fight to stop at that stage although the cut was quite big,” admitted Solis (25-5-1, 11 KOs). “Anyway, I’m satisfied with my performance in there and now it’s a case of waiting to see what the WBA will do next.
“I feel okay about it all but if it had gone to the decision after four rounds I would have won because I was up on the scorecards. If he gives up his belt to move up in weight as he said he would then hopefully I’ll have a chance to fight for the title as I have a high ranking. I’m going to start training again soon to be ready for what’s coming.
Early rumours circulating could be a return to Europe for the Venezuelan to take on another Englishman in Paul Butler (25-1, 13 KOs) who is currently rated at number six by the WBA.
“Hopefully those rumours are true, but I won’t believe anything until I have a contract in my hands,” Liborio added.
