America's Chris Byrd retained his IBF heavyweight title with a unanimous points win over compatriot DaVarryl Williamson in Reno, Nevada. The 35-year-old was rarely troubled by his close friend but failed to impress either in a dull affair.
The judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112, 116-112 as Byrd defended his title for a fourth time.
Byrd won the vacant IBF belt with a points decision over former champion Evander Holyfield in December 2002.
Byrd blamed his rocky relations with promoter Don King for his poor showing.
"If you are with Don King and you're in his dog house, you don't get to fight," said Byrd, whose last appearance was a decision over Jameel McCline on 12 November.
"I need to be active. I'm off 11 months, that's what you get."
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 