WBO super middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (44-4, 29 KOs) won a split decision over Martin Murray (32-3-1, 15 KOs) on Saturday night at the TUI Arena in Hannover, Germany, Fightnews.com reports.

Murray outworked Abraham early, the the champ came back in the middle rounds. Murray was warned for excessive holding. Murray rocked Abraham in round eight, but Abraham came back strong late in the round.

Murray was deducted a point for holding in round eleven. Most of the heavy shots came from Abraham. Scores were 115-112, 116-111 Abraham, 115-112 Murray. It was the fourth time Murray has challenged unsuccessfully for a world title.