January 5th, 2008 - In his first fight of 2008, Paulie Malignaggi turned in a lackluster performance against determined Herman Ngoudjo, being awarded a lucky unanimous decision tonight in Atlantic City. Malignaggi (24 - 1, 5KOs) started back-peddling from the opening round and could not get his jab in rhythm. Although landing fewer punches, Ngoudjo (19-2, 9KO's) landed the harder punches throughout the fight, stunning Malignaggi a few times through the course of the bout. In a surprise, Ngoudjo got stronger as the fight entered the later rounds, pushing the action and punished Malignaggi until the final bell. However, according to the judges, it was little too late.
Judges at ringside scored the bout 115-113, 116-113, and 117-111.
