Josh Kelly dethrones Bakhram Murtazaliev to become latest British world champion

Josh Kelly had to climb off the floor, but he would not be denied as he became world champion on a memorable night for British boxing in Newcastle against the previously unbeaten, Bakhram Murtazaliev. 

Entering the contest a significant underdog and facing scrutiny over his stamina, Kelly made a mockery of pre-fight expectations as he produced a largely disciplined display to edge the Eastern European on the scorecards by the narrowest of margins. 

Kelly made a confident start as he looked to score with single shots and his night got even better when he floored Murtazaliev with a jab in the fourth session. 

Despite that setback, Murtazaliev continued to push forward with aggression and his industry was rewarded when he dropped Kelly in round nine with a well-timed left hook. 

For the first moment in the fight, Kelly looked concerned and he repeatedly looked to Adam Booth in his corner for guidance and reassurance. 

The knockdown motivated Murtazaliev and he finished the fight stronger, but Kelly was still willing him to meet him head on in the final session when he unleashed a solid flurry with his opponents stranded on the ropes. 

At the end of 12 tense rounds, there was a nervous wait for the verdict to be read out, but when it did finally come, there was relief and celebration in Kelly’s corner as he was declared the new champion. 

Kelly is now in the mix to face the likes of Vergil Ortiz and Jaron Ennis, but for now, the Sunderland man will savour this moment as he knows deep down it has been a long time coming. 

Sign up to DAZN Ultimate Tier to get PPV's included in your subscription 

Subscribe to DAZN's new Ultimate Tier to get a minimum of 12 PPV events included per year, including Barrois vs Garcia, on top of another 185 fight nights. Plus Serie A football, watch on multiple devices, and many more extra benefits.

Sign up for £22.99 in the UK / $44.99 in the U.S. More details here .