Vaca Wins Welterweight Title in Wild Finish

Jorge Vaca of Mexico became the World Boxing Council welterweight champion Wednesday when he defeated champion Lloyd Honeyghan of Britain in a controversial finish to an explosive fight.

Vaca was awarded the title by a split decision after the fighters banged heads in the eighth round and Vaca was left helpless in the middle of the ring, blood spurting from his right eye.

Under WBC rules, Honeyghan lost a point for the head butt, and the judges were asked by referee Henry Mlespere to score the previous seven rounds only.

The point deduction proved crucial as two of the judges, Chuck Hassett of the United States and Bob Logis of Belgium, favored Vaca. Malcolm Bulmer of Australia favored Honeyghan.

“We think it was a fair decision,” Ignacio Huizar, Vaca’s co-manager, said as the new champion left the ring, his head wrapped in a white towel. “But this was not the best way to lose a title, and we will certainly give Honeyghan a rematch. Both guys are very good fighters.”

While Vaca’s record improved to 43-5-1, Honeyghan incurred his first defeat in a 32-fight career. “I definitely thought Lloyd was ahead,” said Mickey Duff, Honeyghan’s manager. “I’m sure the WBC will order a rematch in the circumstances.”

Honeyghan was making his fourth defense of the title he took from former undisputed champion Donald Curry 13 months ago.