British boxing is facing an uncertain future after a ruling by the High Court that a former professional fighter is entitled to damages for the injuries he suffered during a title fight eight years ago.

The boxer, Michael Watson, was knocked out in a super middle-weight world title fight by another British fighter, Chris Eubank.

It was seven minutes after the end of the contest before anyone realized that Watson was in serious distress. There were further delays before he was taken to a hospital with a consultant neuro-surgeon on duty. Watson -- who is now confined to a wheelchair -- successfully argued in court that the Boxing Board of Control had a duty to ensure that he got the best possible treatment promptly.

Watson will now seek substantial damages, which correspondents say could lead to financial ruin for the Boxing authorities.