Glen Johnson won the light heavyweight championship of the world from Antonio Tarver via split decision in Los Angeles on Saturday.  Marty Denkin scored it 116-112 for Tarver but he was overruled by Melvina Lathan and Chuck Giampa, who both judged it 115-113 for Johnson.  This was a very competitive bout that left Tarver fans with plenty of reasons to think their man won.  Compubox Punchstats favored Tarver, 296-217.  Still, if anyone deserves to have a close decision go his way, it is Johnson, who has found himself on the short end of several dubious verdicts throughout his career.  A rematch seems likely unless Roy Jones steps forward to fight Johnson.  Its been quite a year for Johnson, who as recently as May of 2003 boxed on a card held in a restaurant.  On the undercard, 2004 Olympic gold medal winner Andre Ward made his pro debut with a second round TKO of Chris Molina, 2-1. -Scott Shaffer