by Francisco Salazar

ARLINGTON, Texas - Tevin Farmer overcame a point deduction to defeat mandatory challenger Guillaume Frenois by unanimous decision.

With the victory, Farmer retains his IBF junior lightweight title.

Farmer has been one of boxing's most active fighters. Since defeating Billy Dib to win the IBF title on Aug. 3, the 28-year-old Farmer has now defended his IBF title four times.

Frenois entered the bout having fought to a draw in his previous fight against Jono Carroll on Dec. 8.

From the opening bell, Farmer, who resides in Philadelphia, utilized his quickness to outbox Frenois, a fellow southpaw, during the first two fights. Frenois closed the distance during the third round, finding some success by connecting to the head and body of Farmer.

During several exchanges, Farmer stood in the pocket with Frenois, sitting down on his punches and attacking the head and body. While he was scoring with those punches, none of them seem to hurt Frenois.

Farmer was deducted a point in round 10 by referee Mark Calo-oy for landing a low blow to Frenois. Calo-oy had already warned Farmer, especially in round six when Farmer landed a low blow that caused Frenois to utilize time to recover from the punch.

Sensing he was down on the scorecards, Frenois increased his punch output during the final two rounds. Frenois did connect with several punches, particularly lead or counter left hands to the head of Farmer.

It was too late as Farmer (30-4-1, 6 knockouts) was able to receive the nod on the judges' scorecards (116-111, 116-111, and 119-108).

Frenois, who resides in Saint-Quentin, France, drops to 46-2-1, 12 KOs.