Itauma vs Franklin LIVE!
Moses Itauma made another emphatic statement as the British heavyweight prospect became the first fighter to stop Jermaine Franklin in Manchester.
Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte were both taken the distance in points wins in Franklin's two previous visits to the UK but the durable American was brutally taken out midway through the fifth round by Itauma.
Having knocked his opponent down in the third, Itauma closed the show in spectacular fashion a couple of rounds later, following up a punishing left uppercut with a right hand that saw Franklin crash to the canvas face first. Referee Steve Gray immediately waved off the contest as Itauma bowed to the sold-out Co-op Live Arena crowd after moving to 14-0, which will only amplify calls for the 21-year-old to fight for a world title next.
Live updates
Taylor vs Hutchinson: Round 4
Better from Taylor, looking to keep Hutchinson at bay. Hutchinson is looking to plant that front foot and land some solid shots, but Taylor is hanging in.
Taylor vs Hutchinson: Round 3
Some classy movement from Hutchinson who is beginning to enjoy himself in there. Can Taylor keep the pace?
Taylor vs Hutchinson: Round 2
Both are letting their hands go as the fight begins to open up early. Taylor swings for the heavens and is met with a similar reply from Hutchinson.
Taylor vs Hutchinson: Round 1
A quick-tempo first round as the two look to feel each other out. Taylor is trying to get on the front foot early, but he’s been met by some strong defence from his opponent.
Up next
Ezra Taylor takes on Willy Hutchinson in the light heavyweight division.
The knockout punch
What a comeback!
Pauls has won it, and in some style, as he knocks out Thompson. The referee waves it off at the second knockdown, with Pauls a mile behind on the scorecards.
Thompson vs Pauls: Round 8
A good eighth from Pauls with a number of decent hooks and jabs, but all the power punches are coming from the gloves of Thompson. Pauls looks almost done.
Thompson vs Pauls: Round 7
Pauls is bruised up around the eyes as he endures another tough round. Thompson is on top here.
Thompson vs Pauls: Round 6
A real scrap in the sixth as both men look to assert themselves in the eyes of the judges. Not much to split them there.