Sunday 2 July 2017 12:42, UK
Frank Buglioni made the first defence of his British light-heavyweight title by outpointing Ricky Summers in an entertaining main event at London's O2 Arena.
Buglioni was again taken to the trenches, but eventually earned a unanimous points decision, winning by scores of 116-113, 115-114 and 118-111.
The Enfield man certainly did not have it all his own way as Summers gave as good as he got throughout, often trading with the Londoner in an action-packed scrap.
The fight started with a fairly even first round, both fighters having success, the champion landing a heavy right hand that was quickly replied to by the game challenger.
The contest quickly went up a notch in the second as Summers proved he was definitely at home on the big stage. Despite a positive few minutes though, Buglioni made the stronger finish to the round, landing a crisp body shot that clearly hurt an anguished Summers.
In the third, the tide started to turn even further and it turned in favour of the home favourite as a huge right hand staggered Summers on the ropes. Buglioni continued to apply relentless pressure, but the challenger valiantly survived to hear the bell.
The big right hand from Buglioni continued to wreak havoc, but Summers regained a foothold, assaulting Buglioni on the ropes as they traded leather.
The challenger was giving it his all and soon began to get on top as the fight reached its second half, defiantly landing a succession of shots.
As is often the case with 'Wise Guy' he was being drawn into a gruelling battle by Summers and both men were taking a shot to give one, each light-heavyweight landing punishing blows.
But the champion has showed time and time again that he has a warrior's mentality and in the 11th, Buglioni found an explosive combination off the ropes that stiffened Summers.
The home fighter seemed to be the fitter of the two and although Summers fought on gamely to hear the final bell, it was Buglioni who had his arm raised.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the fight, Buglioni said: "It was very tough and credit to Ricky, he brought his A game.
"It was a massive occasion, a lot of pressure, but I will excel from this and move on, come back stronger."
Summers added: "Frank is a great champion and can hold a shot very well. I would love to do it again. I want to be on the big stage and am absolutely gutted - I could cry.
"I was really nervous at the press conference, this was a really big occasion and this fight has made me better."
