Billy Joe Saunders handed Chris Eubank Jr the first defeat of his professional career to retain his British, European and Commonwealth middleweight titles. An entertaining fight which grew as it went on was decided by a split decision with the judges eventually handing the bout to Saunders.

Saunders was the winner on the cards of two judges - 115-114 and 115-113 their verdicts - but the other official scored th fight 116-113 in Eubank's favor. Such scores will lead to immediate talk on a rematch which was on the lips of both men after the fight. Saunders, who is now eyeing a shot at the WBO version of the world title.

Now 20-0 in his pro career, he added: "I've got a bit of learning to do yet and (then) I'm ready for the world title. Since I've been in boxing all I've wanted to be is world champion. I was pushed extremely hard but when people see me in there, they think 'I could come here and push and I know his weaknesses' but it's a lot different when you're in the ring with me.

"I got a bit complacent with him because from round one to six it was easy. I wobbled him in the second round with a right hook and I saw his legs dip and I got a little bit complacent."

"I still think he's a c*nt but what can you do. I've beat him. He said he was prepared to die in the ring to defeat his unbeaten record but I've just taken it and there's nothing he can do about it."

He is hopeful of facing the winner of December 13 WBO title fight between Matt Korobov ad Andy Lee.