Williams (left) beats Skelton to the jab early in the fight

British champion Skelton, 39, used some typically uncompromising tactics to try and out-bully his opponent.

But Williams, 32, landed a big right uppercut in the final round to leave Skelton hanging on until the bell.

That tipped the scoring in Williams' favour as the Brixton-based fighter won the bout on a split decision.

Skelton was warned for using his head in the opening seconds and remained aggressive throughout the opening round while Williams sought to get his classy left jab working.

Skelton caught Williams with a ferocious right uppercut which rocked Williams, but the champion managed to stay on his feet and see out the round.

Williams recovered his composure in round three and executed a slick left-right combination in the fourth.

It was a very tough fight but I know I was in control Danny Williams

He again had the upper hand in round five but Skelton rallied in round six and received several lectures from the referee for barging Williams in round seven.

Williams began round eight on the attack and finished the ninth strongly.

Skelton made the running in round 10 and looked like he could have done enough to sway the judges.

With both boxers tiring badly they hung onto each other in the penultimate round with few punches thrown.

But Williams clearly won the last round, inflicting a deep gash on Skelton's head after landing a sweet left.

The judges at ringside scored the fight 115-114, 114-115 and 116-113.

"It was a very tough fight but every time I went back to my corner I know I was in control," said Williams.

"Fair play to Matt, he was very strong and he shouldn't give up because he is a very good fighter.