The 26-year-old Belfast man gambled by going for a 'world' title in only his 14th professional fight and it paid off against experienced Argentinian Ramon Britez.

Magee had his opponent down three times before referee Paul Connor counted the champion out.

The IBO is not a recognised world sanctioning body in Britain.

"I was ready for a hard 12-round battle, but once my first punch landed I knew I had the beating of this guy," said Magee.

"Once I saw the opportunity to finish him off early I just kept up the pressure and it paid off.

Magee can now enjoy a happy Christmas and look forward to lucrative bouts in the New Year.

He is under the management of Barry Hearn's Matchroom stable and the well known promoter is targeting Magee for the big time.

Matchroom spokesman John Wischhusen said: "Britez came here having stopped Adrian Dodson at Wembley a few months ago and in a lot of people's eyes was the favourite.

"For Brian to stop him in the first round was an excellent result. I think Brian had an aggressive strategy and it really did pay off big time.

"It's all come very early on in his career but there's no reason why he can't build on that win and go from strength to strength. "We'll sit down with him and plan out a strategy for 2002 - and it could be a very exciting year for him.

"One of the reasons he came with Barry Hearn was to become more busy and I'm sure Barry will keep to his word."