DAEGU, South Korea – One of the most anticipated events of the world championships turned into one of the most controversial, with Olympic champion Dayron Robles disqualified, accused of interfering with Chinese star Liu Xiang in a 110-meter hurdle race awarded to Jason Richardson of the United States.

Robles finished first, but field judges disqualified the Cuban. Richardson benefited when Liu slowed down, and crossed the finish line second in Monday's race.

The Cubans have lodged an appeal.

Liu, who finished third, says "when I approached the ninth hurdle, Robles pulled me. It made me slow down."

David Oliver of the U.S. was the pre-race favorite but crossed the line fifth.