Derry Mathews clinched the WBA interim lightweight world title with an unanimous points decision win over Tony Luis at Liverpool's Echo Arena tonight.
The Merseyside-born fighter pleased his thousands of fans by beating Luis - a late replacement for Ismael Barroso - to bring his record to 37-9 after two judges scored it 114-112, with the other lodging 115-112.
With Barroso failing to obtain a visa, Mathews' bout was left in limbo but Canada's Luis, who was meant to defend his WBC Continental lightweight in Minnesota this week, stepped in after getting the call. It represented the third time that the Englishman's opponent had been changed after his fight with Richar Abril was called off on two occasions.
This prompted suggestions that it could be a mismatch, but Luis proved a worthy opponent and silenced his doubters with an impressive third round. Luis then threatened to spoil the party atmosphere on Merseyside in round six when the crowd saw the local favourite being forced to cover up before being saved by the bell.
Low blow in rounds seven and eight saw Mathews deducted points as chances of an upset increased, while the North American was also warned for a couple of stray elbows.
Mathews gradually grew in control as the visitor began to tire and dominated the final few rounds, before instantly celebrating when the bell rang.
Shane Callaghan
