LAS VEGAS — Amir Khan successfully defended his WBA 140-pound title with a narrow unanimous decision over Marcos Maidana on Saturday night, surviving the stiffest test of his career with guts and skill.
Khan (24-1, 17 KOs) knocked down Maidana with 10 seconds left in the first round, and the fight never really slowed down. The free-swinging Maidana seemed to be close to stopping Khan during a brilliant 10th round, but Khan absorbed every shot and responded with a strong 11th.
The British champion answered every question about his toughness in his third title defense, finishing the fight with blood dripping from his nose.
Maidana (29-2) also was hurt by a point deduction by referee Joe Cortez in the fifth round, apparently for throwing an elbow in frustration.
