"Bukom Snake" fails To Win Commonwealth Title

Craig Docherty restored some pride for Scottish boxing when he won a points decision over Abdul Malik Jabir in Glasgow.

The Commonwealth super-featherweight champion retained his belt despite receiving a nasty cut in the opening exchanges of the first round.

His opponent, from Ghana, was on top in the opening three rounds as his forward movement and diverse range of punches was confusing the Scottish boxer.

Docherty had to have the cut inspected by the doctor at ringside in the third round but was allowed to fight on.

The Glasgow crowd were then treated to a phenomenal three minutes of boxing as both fighters stood toe to toe and were refusing to take a backward step.

Docherty then began to use his superior boxing skills to pick off Jabir, who seemed to lose the power in his punch as the fight wore on.

In the final few rounds Docherty, still struggling with the horrific cut, boxed and moved as the Ghanaian went in search of the knock down he needed to claim the title.

After twelve rounds of excellent boxing the referee gave the decision to Docherty by four rounds and the Scottish crowd finally saw a home champion retain their title after recent defeats suffered by Scott Harrison and Alex Arthur.