Ricky Burns lost an exciting decision to Omar Figueroa

Ricky Burns was on the wrong end of a unanimous decision in a gruelling scrap with Omar Figueroa.

Two points deducted from Burns ultimately cost him dear as the two former world champions put on a physically demanding tear-up in Hidalgo, Texas, on Saturday.

The Scotsman was punished in rounds eight and 11 for holding by referee Laurence Cole, who regularly attempted to create space between the fighters by holding their arms as they fought at close quarters.

Both fighters were visibly exhausted at different stages of the brutal bout, and at times Burns looked capable of ending Figueroa's undefeated streak with the American slowing down.

But ultimately, Figueroa's all-action style earned him the nod, with the three ringside judges all giving the home state fighter a 116-110 win.

Burns said afterwards: "We knew it was going to be a tough fight, but I didn't agree with the deductions for holding. I thought he was holding as much as me and that's why I had to tie him up.

"We moved up in weight for this one but still had some trouble making weight, but I didn't want to jeopardize my chance to fight in America.

"I think it was his size that gave me problems more than anything. I don't know what weight he was in that ring, but it was a lot bigger than me.

"The plan was to try to stick to boxing for the first half of the fight, but once the size really took over I had to stand and exchange more than I would have liked. I couldn't get him off of me. I've got no excuses, as I said the best man will win.

"I always leave everything in the ring and that's all I can do. I hope everyone who watched enjoyed the fight.

"We've enjoyed the experience of being in the US obviously the decision didn't go our way which puts a damper on it, but overall everyone here in Texas has been great. I want to say a big thank you to everybody. I hope to back again."

Figueroa, who is now unbeaten in 25 fights, added: "Fighting a fight like that, it takes a lot to go even four rounds, much less 12. With a fighter like that, leaning on you and using his weight on you it's tough. I'm just glad I was in shape and didn't let my fans down."