Duva supports Holt's protest

Despite their current contract dispute, promoter Dino Duva is sending his support to junior welterweight contender Kendall “Rated R” Holt and his quest to secure a rematch against WBO boxing Champion Ricardo Torres. Holt (22-2, 12 KOs) suffered a controversial eleventh-round stoppage during his challenge of Torres last week at Salon Jumbo del Country Club in Barranquilla, Colombia.

Allegations have been leveled of bottles being thrown, ringside personnel grabbing Holt, an early stoppage by the referee, and a dangerous lack of order during the fight.

“After reviewing some highlights from the fight, I just want to say that I support Kendall’s bid for an immediate rematch. I think it’s warranted and the right thing for the WBO to do. There were a number of improprieties evident to me in watching the tape.”

Despite the fighter’s injuries and setbacks, Duva has skillfully guided the career of Holt since 2001. Shortly before he received his dream of a title shot, however, the 28-year-old suddenly declared his promotional contract void -- a claim that Duva strongly disagrees with.

“Kendall and I are in court regarding my contract and that’s disappointing to me, but regardless of our differences, what happened to him in Colombia isn’t right. I think the WBO should do the right thing and correct this mistake by giving him another shot at a safer location. We can’t allow young men who work so hard to make a living suffer injustices like this without taking corrective action. Things like this are not good for the sport of boxing. It must be corrected, and the only fair way is to order an immediate rematch.”