YOKOHAMA, Japan (AP) Noel Arambulet of Venezuela earned a split decision over champion Keitaro Hoshino of Japan to capture the WBA minimumweight title Monday.

There were no knockdowns in the bout at Pacifico Yokohama National Convention Hall in Yokohama. Judge Derek Milham of Australia scored the bout 117-112, and Erkki Meronen of Finland scored it 117-111, in favor of Arambulet. American judge Luis Rivera scored the fight a 114-114 draw.

The 28-year-old Arambulet, the WBA's No. 1 challenger, opened the bout by launching a flurry of punches at the champion's face. Hoshino, on his heels, tried to shield his head from the blows.

The 32-year-old Hoshino attached Arambulet's body, but was outmatched by the speedy challenger.

The fight was Hoshino's first defense of the title he won from Joma Gamboa of the Philippines in Tokyo on Jan. 29.

Arambulet improved to 19-2, including 10 knockouts. Hoshino slipped to 23-8, with six knockouts.

The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast or redistributed without prior written authority of The Associated Press.