Zou Shiming poses before the WBO world flyweight championship against Japanese challenger Sho Kimura in Shanghai on Friday night. Kimura won by TKO in 11 rounds. [Photo/Xinhua]

Kimura, who was still bleeding during interviews with the media, paid tribute to Zou.

"Zou Shiming is an outstanding athlete. I couldn't tell that he is 36 years old. His punches are very powerful and many of them hit me. He's a very strong opponent and I respect him a lot," he said.

When asked about his plans for the future, the new champion flashed a smile while wiping blood from his face.

"Yes, I think I can stop delivering beer now. I want to focus on training full time and retaining the title. But first, I'm heading to my mother's grave. I won this championship belt for her."

Quick jabs

Zou was leading 97-93 and 96-94 on two scorecards when the fight was stopped. The third card had Kimura ahead 96-94 ... The night started on a positive note for Zou when all five Chinese boxers contracted to his company, Zouxuan Sports, went undefeated on the undercard, winning three and drawing two against foreign opponents... In May, Zou opted not to renew his contract with Las Vegas-based Top Rank, which had placed him in Roach's stable. Zou also severed his ties with Shanghai-based promoter SECA and struck a co-sponsorship deal with Alisports.

alywin@chinadaily.com.cn