Maxi Hughes continued his magnificent career renaissance by winning the British lightweight title with a KO of Paul Hyland Jr on Friday night.
However, the fight’s conclusion was shambolic after confusion stemming from referee Mark Lyson.
Hyland Jr had put up a solid fight for the first seven rounds, but was ultimately outmatched against Hughes.
A relentless body attack was a big factor for the eventual winner throughout.
In round eight, Hughes got through with yet another strong left hook to the body.
Hyland Jr wilted and the referee jumped in between the pair – assuming he would touch down and score a knockdown.
MTK Global
MTK Global
The referee pointed for Hughes to go to a neutral corner, but then noticed Hyland Jr had recovered before touching the canvas.
As a result, he instantly corrected himself and told the pair to box on.
However, as he thought a knockdown had been scored, Hyland Jr turned away and did not see the referee change his mind.
With the action resumed, Hughes then ran over and smashed his unsuspecting foe with a massive right hook to the head when he was not looking.
MTK Global
MTK Global
Hyland Jr collapsed to the canvas and was counted out as a result.
The bizarre finish did not discount from Hughes’ performance though.
The Doncaster man previously lost two British title attempts at super-featherweight and was considering walking away from the sport not so long ago.
He is now on a stunning win streak having upset Jono Carroll, outpointed Viktor Kotochigov and conquered the Lonsdale belt against Hyland Jr.
