Timothy Bradley Jr. advanced his claim to be regarded as the world's best welterweight by winning a split decision over Juan Manuel Marquez on Saturday.

Bradley thwarted Marquez's attempt to win his fifth world title by coming on in the second half of the fight to win. It was the third straight close decision win for Bradley, who was a hotly-disputed winner over Manny Pacquiao two fights ago, and retained the WBO belt he won in that bout.

The pro-Marquez crowd booed loudly and Bradley egged them on afterward. He won 116-112 on one card and 115-113 on another, while a third judge had Marquez winning 115-113. Associated Press scored it 115-113 for Bradley.