JUDGES MUST BE HELD TO ACCOUNT

IT was one of the great miscarriages of justice in boxing.

Far from the worst decision ever seen, but one which just felt like it had ruined so much.

Jack Catterall was robbed of becoming undisputed light- welterweight champion against Josh Taylor last weekend. But it wasn’t just the four belts he was denied taking home, it was the moment.

It won’t happen, but even if the result was to be overturned and the Chorley challenger was given the WBA, IBF, WBO and IBF titles, it would never be the same.

His crowning glory should have come in the ring at the Hydro in Glasgow, not over email a few weeks later.

But that’s gone forever now. Even if Catterall goes on to win a world title, it’s unlikely to match what would have been last weekend.

Upsetting the big favourite, ending an unbeaten run and beating the undisputed best in the division. That’s how you become a champion.

Vacant

With Taylor now moving up, his chance may now come for a vacant title shot.

It will still be great for Catterall, who has devoted his life to the sport, but it won’t be as special. Sadly that was taken away from him by Ian John- Lewis and Victor Loughlin, who somehow scored in favour of Taylor.

The standard of officiating from the British Boxing Board of Control is yet again called into question, of course.

There is an investigation ongoing into

John- Lewis’ card, but why only his?

The three judges involved should all be hauled in to explain their cards and the details of the hearing disclosed.

They can overturn the result but maybe they’re too busy counting the 11 per cent of Taylor’s purse they took home in sanctioning fees.

Catterall was denied his moment.

Change is needed to avoid others not getting theirs.