Kell Brook has survived a late onslaught to claim a hard-fought decision victory over Carson Jones in Sheffield.
In a contender for domestic fight of the year, Brook built an early lead before suffering a suspected broken nose and being pushed right to the finish.
Brook dominated the first five rounds, landing in high volume and building a lead on the scorecards.
American Jones refused to be downhearted and kept coming forward, showing a strong chin and slowly gaining a foothold in the contest.
Brook had to show immense strength of character to hold a slender lead, taking sustained punishment to the body and battling through a bloody nose in the late rounds.
After an entertaining bout the judges gave Brook the nod, scoring the fight 116-113, 115-113 and 114-114 for a decision victory.
Brook will now hope to have forced his way into contention for a world title chance towards the end of 2012, with IBF king Randall Bailey or Devon Alexander the most likely opponents.
Liam Power
