Fury rematch for McDermott

McDermott discusses the decision

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The British Boxing Board of Control have ordered a re-match between John McDermott and Tyson Fury to take place within 90 days.

The first fight for the English heavyweight title ended controversially when the undefeated Fury was handed a 98-92 verdict by referee Terry O'Connor despite most ringsiders giving it to McDermott.

The BBBC immediately ordered an inquiry into the decision while McDermott's promoter Frank Maloney also appealed on behalf of the Londoner, demanding the fight to be ruled 'no contest'.

Following Wednesday's hearing, the governing body honoured the decision but ordered the two back into the ring by Christmas.

The result of the first fight only served to heat up the bad blood between the pair after Fury had taunted McDermott in the preliminaries, calling him 'McMuffin' and 'Big Mac'.

"I'm happy with the re-match but I'm unhappy that it wasn't made at 50-50, because even if they say he (Fury) is a champion, he is a champion by default," Maloney said after emerging from the meeting.

"He was given the title by incompetant scoring and for the board to order a re-match they know that something wasn't right with that fight, or that some of the board members don't agree with that scoring.

"I made a point that I wouldn't want Terry O'Connor anywhere near an arena where I am promoting shows. Their response was that I can't pick my officials.

"I was reprimanded. I think the whole hearing was a joke and does no good for the general public's view of British boxing."

Sky Bet make Fury 2-5 favourite to win the second clash despite McDermott's excellent performance last time.

Boxing spokesman Scott Springgay said: "On the night, McDermott looked to have been the rightful winner.

"However, I still make him the underdog for the rematch as Fury now has that extra experience of going 10 rounds and is fully aware of the task ahead of him."