Saturday 3 February 2018 23:49, UK
Ted Cheeseman came through a gruelling battle with Carson Jones to claim a unanimous points decision at The O2 on Saturday night.
The 22-year-old super-welterweight, now with a record of 13-0, was pushed all the way in what was far and above his biggest and most testing challenge to date, taking the verdict with scores of 100-89 and 99-91 twice.
Oklahoma's Jones, who has shocked Brit's Brian Rose and Ben Hall in the past, was menacingly heavy-handed and dangerous throughout, playing his part in an explosive ten-round contest.
Cheeseman tried to establish his jab early on and take command of the bout, but he was soon forced to stand and trade with the powerful American.
The relentless action from the opener showed no sign of slowing in the next periods, both men planting their feet and landing thudding blows.
Having proved the toughness of his chin, 'The Big Cheese' took control of the bout in the fifth, light on his feet, cleverly working around the ring, firing home at will, as Jones stared to look ragged and weary.
The spritely Londoner further ceased control as the fight reached its climax, boxing smartly in the late rounds, landing a variety of heavy punches, but his 31-year-old foe, who lost a point in the ninth for repeated blows, remained defiant all the way to the final bell.
Afterwards, Cheeseman, who claimed the vacant WBA International super-welterweight title in victory, said: "At times I thought I could get him out of there, but I know he's a good fighter.
"I thought I boxed exceptionally well and got the job done perfectly. I know I had him hurt, this win is a career changer for me, it will push me on to big things.
"Tonight was about winning. I'm so happy with what I've done and I can't wait for my next big fight or big show."
