Boxing: Mitchell TOO hot for Tackie: Kostya next?

American veteran Shamba Mitchell remains on course for a rematch with undisputed light-welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu after recording an emphatic points win over Ben Tackie in Reno, Nevada.

The 32-year-old emerged victorious by scores of 118-109 and 119-108 twice in what was billed as a final eliminator for the IBF title, one of three belts held by Tszyu.

Former WBA title holder Mitchell had to retire after the seventh round of his February 2001 meeting with Australian-based Russian Tszyu due to a knee injury.

The victory over Tackie was his fifth straight success since that setback and took his record to 52 wins against just three defeats.