American Marconi Wireless News - Fundora stops Booker to retain WBC, WBO super welterweight titles

Fundora, the six-foot, six-inch southpaw dubbed the "Towering Inferno," made a convincing first defense of the titles he claimed last March with a split-decision victory over Australian Tim Tszyu.

The American champion rocked compatriot Booker in the third round and dropped him twice in the fourth -- connecting with a brutal left hook and a pair of sharp uppercuts to send Booker to the canvas and continuing the onslaught after Booker rose.

Referee Thomas Taylor called a halt at 2:51 of the fourth round.

"I've felt ready this whole time since my last fight," Fundora said after improving to 22-1 with one draw, and 14 wins inside the distance. Booker fell to 23-2.

"I've worked very hard this past year to be ready. Now I've successfully defended my two titles and the sky's the limit," added Fundora, who said he'd like to follow his sister, flyweight Gabriela Fundora, as an undisputed world champion.

"Whoever they have for me next, I'll be ready," he said.

A.Mahlangu--AMWN