Scott Gammer slipped to the third defeat of his career

Former British heavyweight champion Scott Gammer's return to the ring ended in brave defeat in Berlin.

The 31-year-old from Pembroke Dock hurt his right hand in the second round of his clash with Francesco Pianeta for the vacant EBU-EU heavyweight belt.

He battled well one-handed, but retired on his stool at the end of the eighth.

Gammer's record slips to 18-3-1, while 23-year-old German-based Italian Pianeta extends his 100% record to 16 fights, 10 coming by way of knock-out.

606: DEBATE Pianeta could barely live with Gammer one-handed CaptBennett

The bout at the Max Schmeling Halle was chief support to the WBA heavyweight title clash between John Ruiz and Nikolai Valuev, the latter regaining his title on a split decision.

Gammer fell out of love with boxing last September after losing to John McDermott and decided to retire.

But the Welshman, who lost his British heavyweight title to Danny Williams in March 2007, had a change of heart and came back hungry for a second shot at success.