British-based Serbian Geard Ajetovic put up a gallant bid to take the belt away from ``The Real Deal'' Geale but lost on points.

World champion Geale won by scores of 117-111 (twice) and 120-109 but many knowledgable boxing fans in the crowd at The Cube, Campbelltown, scored the fight much closer than

the judges.

The first two rounds went to Ajetovic's plan with both boxers feeling their way and testing each other.

Ajetovic unleased a flurry of punches in the third round and showed a glimpse of the danger he might pose for Geale in the later rounds. But an upset win never materialised as Tasmanian-

born Geale went on the attack and kept Ajetovic on the defensive for most of the fight.

It was becoming clear that the only way Ajetovic would take the title would be to knock Geale out but it never looked like happening.

It wasn't Geale's best fight and he was the first to admit it in the dressing room soon after the fight had ended.

He told the Advertiser he was ``frustrated'' during the fight, being unable to land a big punch on Ajetovic.

``I could've done much better, but I see it as a good learning experience,'' Geale said.

``He was a good, tough fighter.

``I'll be working on some things as there will be better opportunities to come.

``There's been a bit of talk of me fighting [Anthony] Mundine and that's what we're aiming for, but I've got a few options.

``It's time for me to step up.''

Geale is now unbeaten in 19 professional fights while Ajetovic drops to 16-2-1.

OTHER RESULTS FROM THE CUBE:

Frank Loporto defeated Sydney's Peter Mitrevski Jnr (unanimous decision).

Hurstville's Billy ``The Kid'' Dibb defeated Rey Anton Olarte (technical knockout) Camden's Rob Medley defeated Ade Alfons (technical knockout).

Steven Wills defeated Leon Maratas (unanimous decision)

Steve Casserly defeated Damian Lawler (technical decision)