Boxing: Second keeps Pownceby fight alive

Boxer Soulan Pownceby can thank his former trainer and father figure, Paul Fitzsimons, for a meaningful workout in his last fight before the Athens Olympics.

Fitzsimons moved into the opponent's corner to ensure Rudi Suchanek lasted the four-round fight on Saturday when it became clear the Australian was ready to quit. Pownceby needed to go the full distance to prepare for Athens.

With Fitzsimons' help, Suchanek came out for the fourth round and more pummelling from Pownceby.

The Australian took a mandatory eight-count before his handlers threw in the towel, with Pownceby 23-8 ahead on points.

The fight at Christchurch's Legend's bar drew a crowd of about 500.

Fitzsimons has been in Pownceby's corner for nearly 10 years, sticking with him during a jail term for manslaughter of his baby daughter.

- NZPA