Marlen Esparza outpoints Ibeth Zamora for WBC belt

Ibeth Zamora fought hard to retain her world title but fell just short on the judge's scorecards, all three voting for Esparza in a closely contested battle.

Esparza threw the higher volume of punches, but Zamora's shots were heavier, depending on what you liked better, it could have gone either way.

Zamora scored the bouts sole knockdown in the 4th round when a counter right-hand dropped the challenger. Esparza rose quickly and didn't seem outwardly affected by the punch.

The popular Esparza was fighting in her home state and will be a big star in women's boxing now that she has risen to world championship status.

The fight was entertaining and boxing fans would be best served by seeing a rematch so that superiority can be established one way or the other.

Scores: 97-92 | 95-94 | 96-94