Canadian based Russian Movladdin Biyarslanov scored a workmanlike if unspectacular 8 round split decision win over Pomona, California's Israel Mercado on the Demetrius Andrade vs Liam Williams undercard at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida in a battle of undefeated prospects.
Biyarslanov was favoured to win due to his amateur background but Marcado boxed in an almost awkward style even though he looked quite poised and on balance.
Mercado lost too many rounds due to waiting too long before letting his hands go, whereas, Biyarslanov never stamped his authority on the fight despite clearly having the skills to do so.
Scores: Fernando Barbosa 78-74 | Mike Ross 77-75 | Benoit Roussel 76-76.