Han stands by decision win despite Holm's late charge

Stephanie Han says she did enough to retain her WBA lightweight title against Holly Holm despite the fight going the distance. The champion acknowledged the closeness of the contest but backed the judges' verdict.

“I know that it was a close fight, but I felt that I did enough to win. I wasn't surprised how she brought the fight to me because I know how hard she prepared for this.”

— Stephanie Han, via ESPN

What Stephanie Han said

Han defended her WBA lightweight belt against former multi-division world champion Holm in a bout that saw the challenger mount a sustained late push. The decision sparked debate among observers, with Holm's final-round surge raising questions about the scoring. Han had prepared for Holm's trademark pressure style heading into the defense.

What it moves

The result keeps Han's lightweight title run intact but leaves the door open for a rematch clause or further debate over the scoring. Holm's camp has yet to comment publicly on whether they will pursue a direct return. The WBA will need to address its mandatory picture at 135 pounds in the coming weeks.

Source: espn.com. Full Stephanie Han fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.