Callum Smith was really challenged by John Ryder, but managed to win by unanimous decision and retain his WBA super-middleweight title in Liverpool.
Hopes were high in Smith’s home city for a big win but he was pushed hard by the Londoner and it seemed after 12 rounds the decision would be close.
However, the three judges scored it 117-111, 116-112 and 116-112 to Smith.
Smith defended the title for a second time after beating Hassan N’Dam in New York in June.
🗣 “HE NEVER TROUBLED ME!”
Callum Smith reacts to his controversial win over John Ryder, speaks on re-match, injuries sustained & reacts to fans comments.
Watch FULL interview
via link below ⬇️🔗| https://t.co/ZIMRAJZNbR
🗣| @CallumSmith23
🎤| @Fuaaaad8 pic.twitter.com/mbN6mVcRlD— Behind The Gloves (@BehindTheGloves) November 24, 2019
“I was probably sulking because I knew it was not my best performance,” Smith, who extended his unbeaten record to 27-0, told BBC Radio 5 live.
“I thought it was a little bit too easy early on and I don’t know if it was his game plan to finish strong and it made it awkward.
“I am very disappointed in myself, I am a perfectionist. I knew it was close but I never thought I was behind.”