by David P. Greisman

Brandon Rios thinks he didn’t deserve to suffer his first pro defeat in his unanimous decision loss to Mike Alvarado this past Saturday.

“When I watched the fight, I did not lose that fight,” Rios said Friday morning in an ESPN.com online chat. “I have it 7-5 or with some of the rounds, maybe a draw.”

The judges, however, had the bout in Alvarado’s favor: two of them scored it 115-113, while the third judge’s tally was 114-113.

“He ran the last three rounds. He didn't connect,” Rios said. “I was the one doing the more damage. The more chasing. The more hitting. That's why I thought I won those last three rounds.”

Judge Bill Lerch gave Alvarado rounds 10, 11 and 12, though, while judges Dave Moretti and Duane Ford had Rios winning the 11th.

Rios said he and his team thought this second bout would be just like their first war.

“With this fight, I did look slow,” Rios said. “I was heavy on my feet. He ran a lot. I didn't get any punches on him because he ran so much. I didn't get what I wanted off. It happens. I can not bring time back. He stuck to his game plan. I'm ready for the third one now.

“It was my mistake. We were preparing for another brawl,” he said. “That's how I messed up. It was our fault. But it was a good job. We cut the ring off. But when we did that, I didn't pursue more. Next time we'll be ready for another game plan. Whatever he brings.”

David P. Greisman is a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America. Follow David on Twitter @fightingwords2 or send questions/comments via email at fightingwords1@gmail.com