Calzaghe takes away Kessler's WBC, WBA titles

CARDIFF, Wales - Undefeated Joe Calzaghe added Mikkel Kessler's World Boxing Association and World Boxing Council super middleweight titles to his own World Boxing Organization crown early today, unanimously outpointing the previously undefeated Dane.

The 35-year-old Welshman shook off the Dane's powerful right hands and finished strong for his 44th victory in a row and 21st defense of the WBO title in 10 years.

"To win the four major title belts, to be the unbeaten champion and 10 years a champion, it's just amazing and I'm so proud," said Calzaghe, who said it could well be his final fight at 168 pounds before he finishes his career as a light-heavyweight.

"I think I've shown them in the States what I'm all about. I'm looking at fighting for another 12 months and I want to fight the big fights and hopefully this will set this up for the big fight and [Bernard] Hopkins will come out of hiding."

Calzaghe closed with three standout rounds at the Millennium Stadium in front of 35,000 of his fans.

Kessler dropped to 39-1.