Nathan Cleverly failed to live up to the hype of his long awaited rematch with Tony Bellew, suffering a split decision defeat.
A frenzied fight was expected at Cruiserweight, following Cleverly’s points victory at the weight below in 2011, but the fight was scrappy and cagey.
The bigger Bellew took control in the latter rounds in his hometown and received a decision of 116-112, 115-113 of two judges, while Cefn Fforest’s Cleverly won 115-114 on the third judge’s card.
After the fight Cleverly told Sky Box Office: “It was similar to the first fight and a majority decision, one apiece, but I just think it shows my character, what happened.
“I’ve come up from welterweight and his strength showed in the second half of the fight.
“The first-half I was quite comfortable on the jab. The second-half, I started to slow down, he was using his natural strength, pushing me back the last six rounds. He made it pay. Another close fight, one apiece, maybe we’ll have a third fight.”
The boxers showed each other respect after the fight and Bellew was joined by Cleverly for the post-bout interview.
There is already talk of a second rematch on Cleverly’s home turf if the demand was there.
Bellew told Sky Box Office: “I think it’s over, but if this can fill the Millennium Stadium I’ll go there.
“If this can fill the Millennium, you’ll have my word I’ll go there.”