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Callum Smith fended off a spirited challenge by John Ryder to win by unanimous decision and retain his WBA super-middleweight title in Liverpool.
Hopes were high in Smith’s home city for a big win but he was pushed hard by the Londoner and it seemed after 12 rounds the decision would be close.
However, the three judges scored it 117-111, 116-112 and 116-112 to Smith.
It means Smith, 29, defended the title for a second time after beating Hassan N’Dam in New York in June.
“I was probably sulking because I knew it was not my best performance,” Smith, who extended his unbeaten record to 27-0, told BBC Radio 5 live.
“I thought it was a little bit too easy early on and I don’t know if it was his game plan to finish strong and it made it awkward.
“I am very disappointed in myself, I am a perfectionist. I knew it was close but I never thought I was behind.”
Smith, who beat George Groves to become World Boxing Super Series champion last year, had been the 1-25 on favourite to win before the fight with some bookmakers, such was the level of expectation that he would see out a comfortable win.
But, after a steady start by the champion, southpaw Ryder started to make things awkward for his opponent as he found a way to overcome the 6ft 3in Smith’s height and reach advantage.
“I’ve gone in against the world number one there and feel like I edged it,” said a defiant Ryder.
“I have proven myself on the world scene and deserve to come again. He is a great fighter but I live and breathe this. I re-locate, I am there day in and day out. We have not had the rub of the green but that is boxing.
“I feel that was harsh. I feel I forced the fight a lot and did enough to win.”
More to follow.
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