IN BRIEF : Eklund Scores World Boxing Title

Anders Eklund of Sweden overcame a sixth-round knockdown to earn a decision Thursday night over Philip Brown of New Orleans and claim the vacant World Boxing Assn. Americanus heavyweight championship.

Brown, a former sparring partner for former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, stunned Eklund with a looping right hand midway through the sixth round. He followed up with two more roundhouse rights, sending Eklund to the canvas.

Brown, however, did little else throughout the 12-round bout, throwing only four combinations before the sellout crowd of 1,000 at Harrah’s Reno.

Eklund, a 6-foot-6-inch, 253-pound European champion, jabbed weakly but was effective in throwing solid body shots.

Eklund won handily on two cards. The third judge, Doug Tucker, scored the fight a 114-114 draw. Eklund improved to 18-4-1, while Brown dropped to 36-4.

Eklund has signed to fight Italy’s Guido Turne for the European heavyweight championship. The bout is scheduled May 10 in Helsinki.