Jones captures heavyweight title by unanimous decision.(Chicago Tribune)

Byline: Michael Hirsley

LAS VEGAS _ Light-heavyweight champion Roy Jones proved he could take John Ruiz's best shots Saturday night as he convincingly took Ruiz's heavyweight title by unanimous decision.

Thus, Jones became only the second light-heavyweight in history to accomplish that feat. Ruiz had to settle for proving that he could not be knocked down by Jones' hardest punches, although they bloodied Ruiz's nose repeatedly.

Even before the decision was announced, Jones climbed the ring ropes to crow to the crowd, some of whom booed. However, from the moment the fighters entered the ring, it was clear the crowd favored Jones.

He got Ruiz's respect in the first round. Ruiz charged him early, consistent with his strategy of showing that he could catch up with the faster man. But Jones did not keep retreating. Rather, he stood his ground and picked spots to advance. By round's end, Jones traded punches with Ruiz.

Ruiz rallied in the second, forcing the action. But Jones reasserted himself with rapid-fire jabs in the third.

In the fourth round, Jones added power to his jabs. He landed a huge right midway through the round. Ruiz was not moved, but when Jones tagged him later with a left, Ruiz's nose was bleeding.