LOS ANGELES. Dec 11: WBO lightweight champion Oscar De La Hoya successfully defended his title for the third time Saturday when he stopped challenger Johnny Avila in the ninth round at the Grand Olympic Auditorium, ‘reports AP.

De La Hoya. 16-0 with 15 knockouts, forced Avila to back off with several jabs and combinations. Referee Raul Calz escorted Avila to Dr Adam Karns at ringside. The doctor examined cuts above and below Avila's eye and., ordered the. fight stopped at 1:07 of the ninth round. ■