Kelly vs Agairco: Briton retains title on points despite comeback from Irishman

Briton Josh Kelly was forced to dig deep to retain his IBF light-middleweight world title, surviving a spirited late comeback from Belfast’s Kaoimhin Agyarko to win a narrow points decision in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Kelly was in complete control until the complexion of the contest changed after receiving a sixth round point deduction for repeated punches to the back of the head.

The 31-year-old was then left bleeding from cuts across his face and a gash on his nose as Aguiarco grew in confidence and began landing with increasing success.

But Kelly stood firm to secure the win through the championship round, with the judges scoring the contest 114-113, 115-112 and 115-112.

“It was a messy and tough fight. I didn’t get cut from punches like that, it came from the head and elbows. That’s what it looks like when your skin is tight,” Kelly said.

“I knew he (Agiarko) could be tricky and awkward. (He) had a good game plan. He tried to make it a good boxing match. I had to show a different side at the end and that’s what a champion does.”

Fighting on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight comeback against Christian Prenga, Sunderland’s Kelly claimed his 21st professional victory.

Agairco, 29, hoped to become Ireland’s first black world champion. Instead, despite a valiant second-half comeback, he suffered the first defeat of his professional career in his 30th contest.

Also on the card, WBO super-middleweight champion Hamzah Shiraz labored to an overwhelming points win over Simon Zachenhuber.

The 27-year-old Briton was far from his best and struggled to find his rhythm but was awarded a majority decision as he extended his record to 24 wins and one defeat.