Takaloo regained the WBU light middleweight title with a stunning ninth round knockout of Ireland's Jim Rock.

After a relatively even opening six rounds, the superior strength of Margate-based Takaloo made the difference in the seventh and eighth rounds before the dramatic end.

At the start of the ninth round, the winner unleashed a massive overhand right which landed flush on Dubliner Rock's chin and put the Irishman flat on his backside.

By the time referee Mickey Vann had reached the count of 10, Rock had got up, but was clearly in no state to carry on.

Takaloo, who hails from Iran but has spent 21 of his 27 years in Britain, improves his record to 20 wins, with just three defeats, with 16 of his victories by knockout.

Rock, who will almost certainly retire after this contest, suffered his third defeat against 21 wins, with just six knockouts.