Pierce O'Leary Outlasts Hovhannes Matirosyan in Thrilling Battle, Retains WBC International Super Lightweight Title

Pierce O'Leary successfully defended his WBC International super lightweight title by knocking out Hovhannes Matirosyan in the ninth round at The Resorts World Arena in Birmingham.

The official time was 2:39.

The fight was O'Leary's first under new trainer Joe McNally.

After a strong start, Matirosyan was dropped heavily in the second round by a short left hook, but the Belgian grew in confidence as the fight progressed.

In the third round, O'Leary suffered a cut over his right eye and was caught by a long right hand as Matirosyan began to keep the action at range.

The fight developed into a battle of distance and attrition. O'Leary was successful in close combat, particularly against the body, but he had to walk through flush right hands whenever Matirosyan established his range.

After buzz-saw exchanges in the ninth round, O'Leary landed another clean left hook, which heavily dropped Matirosyan. He was still on his haunches as Victor Loughlin completed his count.

O'Leary improved to 14-0 (8 KOs), while Matirosyan dropped to 16-1 (10 KOs).