ZURICH (Switzerland), Dec 21: Nikolai Valuev ended any hope of Evander Holyfield winning a fifth heavyweight title, narrowly defending his WBA title by a majority decision on Saturday.

The 46-year-old American started the fight brightly, moving around the ring to neutralize Valuev’s long reach advantage. The 7-foot (2.14-meter) Russian, the tallest and heaviest champion ever, struggled to close down Holyfield but began asserting his jab as the fight wore on.

One judged scored the bout a draw, while the others had Valuev winning 116-112 and 115-114.

“Of course I am disappointed,” Holyfield said. “I thought I had done enough to get the win. Now I have to go home and think about my future.”

Holyfield (42-10-2) was attempting to become the oldest heavyweight champion.—AP