Tony Bellew recovered from being floored in the first round to beat Ilunga Makabu and claim the WBC world cruiserweight title at Goodison Park this evening.
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In what was his third world title attempt, it seemed that home favourite Bellew could be heading for another disappointment when a left hook from Makabu sent him tumbling to the canvas, although he did bounce straight back up.
However, the 33-year-old Scouser recovered to gain some momentum in the second round following a dressing down from his corner.
Then, in the third round, Makabu made some early headway, but he was soon on the ropes as Bellew produced a string of accurate and powerful punches.
The telling shot connected with Makabu's jaw and left the Congolese fighter on the floor, from where he was counted out.
The defeat is Makabu's first since his professional debut in 2008, having won 19 fights since then.
Liam Apicella
