PROFESSIONAL BOXING Hoyfield loses title bout by decision

ZURICH, Switzerland -- Nikolai Valuev likely ended Evander Holyfield's last chance at winning a fifth heavyweight title, narrowly defending his WBA title by majority decision Saturday night.

The 46-year-old American, attempting to become the oldest heavyweight to win a major belt, started the fight by moving around the ring to neutralize Valuev's long reach advantage.

The 7-foot Russian, the tallest and heaviest champion ever, struggled to close down Holyfield early but began asserting his jab as Holyfield tired.

One judged scored the bout a draw, while the others had Valuev (51-1) winning 116-112 and 115-114.

"Of course I am disappointed," Holyfield said. "I thought I had done enough to get the win. Now I have to go home and think about my future."

Holyfield (42-10-2) had not fought since losing a one-sided decision to then-WBO champion Sultan Ibragimov more than a year ago.

--AP