Chinese boxer Xiong Chaozhong, 35, returned to the boxing ring after almost 17 months of inactivity on Tuesday, and amazingly resurrects his career. /Chinanews Photo

The Chinese veteran, and former World Boxing Council (WBC) Minimumweight Champion, defeats the 26-year-old Thai prospect Petchmanee Kokietgym, winning a temporary gold belt of World Boxing Association (WBA) “interim” Minimumweight Title. /Chinanews Photo

The experienced Xiong outperformed his rival by scores of 115-113, 116-112 and 114-114. /Chinanews Photo

Coinciding with his birthday, Xiong received warm applause and the unexpected birthday song sung by thousands of fans. “I thought this would be a tough fight. Next step, I will challenge the world champion and try my best to play better,” Xiong said on stage. /Chinanews Photo