Martinez vs. Murray results: Martinez gets off the canvas to decision Murray

It certainly wasn't Sergio Martinez's best performance ever but, in the end, I'm sure he'll take the "W" regardless. Despite a great effort from challenger Martin Murray, Martinez was once again able to scrape himself off the canvas to retain his middleweight crown via decision.

All three judges were in agreement with scores of 115-112 in favor of the Argentinian star who was fighting in his home country in front of thousands of adoring fans. Bad Left Hook scored the fight 114-113 for Murray, the eighth round knockdown being the difference.

Maybe the added pressure of fighting in front of his home fans made it more difficult, maybe not. What is for sure is that Murray was able to put up a much better fight than what most had anticipated going into the bout. Martinez appeared to be in control after the first three rounds with his straight left hand and slick footwork dictating the action. However, Murray was not going to be content with just showing up, and gave a spirited effort that was deserving of the moment. He took over in the middle rounds by cutting off the ring effectively and landing straight right hands with good regularity. Ever the champion, Martinez rallied late, perhaps sweeping the championship rounds.

On the undercard Luis carlos Abregu won a ten round decision over Antonin Decarie. Abregu would seem to be in line for a title shot soon.