Moses beats Shimada to retain boxing title

Paulus Moses of Namibia retained his World Boxing Association lightweight title Sunday with a unanimous points victory over Takehiro Shimada of Japan in a 12-round bout.

Defending his title for the first time since becoming champion last January in Tokyo, the 'Hitman' was ahead 118-110, 119-109 and 119-109 with the judges in the Namibian capital.

Veteran Shimada hit the canvas in the first round after slipping while ducking a right hook.

He appeared to hurt his left knee during the fall and required constant medical attention between rounds.

Shimada still proved a stubborn opponent, defiantly holding out against a barrage of Moses uppercuts in the final three rounds.

While Shimada suffered his fifth loss in 29 fights, Moses clinched his 25th consecutive victory to maintain a perfect career record.

"This is just the beginning. I will bring Namibia more titles. I am ready to face anyone who comes my way," boasted the champion after succeeding before a sell-out 4,000 crowd.