Ghana lightweight Emmanuel “Gameboy” Tagoe took another step toward a world title shot with a 10-round majority decision over veteran Mason Menard Friday night at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
Judges Fernando Barbosa (96-94) and Carlos Sucre (98-92) scored it for Tagoe, while judge Michael Ross had it a draw (95-95). BoxingAfrica.com scored it 97-93 for Tagoe.
Tagoe controlled the action for much of the way, using a solid jab, hand speed, defense mixed in with the occasional power punch to keep Menard off-balance. However, Menard had pockets of success, often bulling Tagoe toward the ropes and unloading.
There were far too many moments where Tagoe either held or showboated rather than throw punches. He also appeared to let Menard off the hook in the ninth, when the American was hurt by a Tagoe right hand. However, the outcome was never in doubt. Tagoe busted Menard up, opening a cut over his eye early on and nearly shutting it before cruising to victory.
Ranked number five at lightweight by the WBO, Tagoe is likely to rise following this win.
