American heavyweight Deontay Wilder has stopped Malik Scott in 96 seconds to potentially move through to a shot at a world title later this year.
Wilder, who moves to a professional record of 31 successive knockouts, was expected to face the toughest test of his career against Scott, whose only defeat in 38 bouts came against Dereck Chisora last year.
However, the hard-hitting Wilder landed a left hook midway through the first round before helping his opponent to the canvas with a straight right hand, leaving Scott in no condition to continue.
The 28-year-old could now face the winner of the contest between Bermane Stiverne and Chris Arreola, who will fight for the WBC title on May 10.
Elsewhere on the card, WBA and WBC light-welterweight champion Danny Garcia edged to a majority-decision victory over Mauricio Herrera.
Darren Plant
