By Chris Robinson

This past Friday evening, Feb. 16, WBC junior lightweight champion O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster successfully defended his title with a split decision over Abraham “El Super” Nova.

The bout took place inside of The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, and was aired on ESPN.

The action was tactical early on, with both men having their moments. Foster (22-2, 12 KO’s) appeared to take control by rounds six and seven, landing powerful shots on Nova (23-2, 16 KO’s) as the rounds went by.

Foster continued to up his work rate late, even scoring a knockdown in the final round courtesy of a left hook.

One judge scored the action 114-113 for Nova, which was overruled by scores of 115-112 and 116-111 for Foster.

“My rhythm was off tonight,” said Foster. “It’s all good. We came home with the win, so I can’t complain. I’m a 12-round fighter and I know how to make judgements through the fight. So, he came on strong in the beginning, but I found my rhythm and his timing, and then I started picking it off.”

Foster mentioned WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete and WBA champion Lamont Roach Jr. as future foes.

“Or the winner of Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson,” Foster said of their looming March 29 showdown.

Nova remained optimistic following his second defeat.

“Hopefully you guys can see me here again,” said Nova. “I’m a world class contender. O’Shaquie, we can run it back. Let’s do it again. If not, I can fight Navarrete or anybody.”

Chris Robinson can be reached at crobinson@hustleboss.com

Photos courtesy of Mikey Williams / Top Rank