PHOTOS: Luis Ortiz Overcomes a Brave Christian Hammer in Brooklyn

Luis Ortiz defeated a game Christian Hammer on Saturday night (Photo: Stephanie Trapp – SHOWTIME)

By Chris Robinson

Former WBA interim heavyweight champion Luis Ortiz notched another victory on Saturday night, but not without some struggle. Ortiz (31-1, 26 KO’s) captured a unanimous decision over Christian Hammer (24-6, 14 KO’s) to keep his name relevant in the heavyweight discussion.

After ten rounds of action, scorecards reading 100-90 and 99-91 twice gave the Cuban heavyweight another important win. But those wide scores weren’t a true indicator of how much grit Hammer showed during the match, as both men were bloodied and bruised at various times during the fight.

Ortiz suffered his first professional loss a year ago when he was stopped by WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder in a classic firefight. And now, the 40-year old wants another crack at a title.

“The fight wasn’t what I was expecting,” said Ortiz. “It was a hard fight and my corner really had to work with me. After I got the rhythm, I heated up a little bit. Every heavyweight out there should know that I still have it at 40-years-old. Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, I’m ready.”

Ortiz has shown knockout power in the past but knew he needed to change things up tonight.

“I fought a fight that I hadn’t for years, which is box and work,” said Ortiz. “So I’m not disappointed I didn’t knock him out because I showed some of my boxing skills tonight.”

Hammer made his American debut one that he, nor fans, will not soon forget.

“Ortiz is a very good and experienced fighter,” stated the 31-year-old Hammer. “He’s technical and smart but he’s not as intimidating as people say he is. I respect Ortiz but I don’t think he’s the best fighter I’ve ever faced.”