Brian Rose earns a world title shot

British light-middleweight Brian Rose has earned a world title shot after beating Javier Maciel.

Rose came through a tough night with a split decision victory on the undercard of Kell Brook's win over Vyacheslav Senchenko.

Both men started the contest by feeling each other out and Rose's classy work behind his jab won him the opening couple of rounds.

His Argentinian opponent upped the tempo after that though, thumping in powerful shots from all angles although the majority were on the gloves.

Maciel unleashed a barrage in round eight and looked to have Rose beaten but the Englishmen survived and started to pick his opponent off as the visitor started to tire in the later rounds.

The scores of 116-113, 113-115 and 117-111 were greeted with jeers, particularly the last score, as the contest had been close throughout.

The vacant WBO title will be fought for by Demetrius Andrade and Vanes Martirosyan next month, with Rose likely to face the winner.

Written by
Daniel Cross