Reigning champion Jon Thaxton was accompanied into the ring by injured Royal Marine commando Marc Goddard, from Norwich (pictures by Richard Hancock).

Anthony Mezaache faced up to Thaxton with an impressive record of having never been stopped in his professional career.

Mezaache was on the canvass after less than two minutes of the first round after taking a clean right-hand from Thaxton on the ear.

Mezaache spat out his gumshield, giving him vital time to recover from Thaxton's early dominance.

Thaxton continued to look the more dominant fighter until the fight reached the latter stages.

Once the fight passed the eighth round it was Mezaache who began to look more effective.

Thaxton was cut first, but before long blood was also gushing from Mezaache's right eye.

By then end of the 12th and final round both fighters were running on empty after heroic efforts on both sides.

Both Mezaache and Thaxton recognised they had been through a gruelling night's boxing.

The judges' decision was the right one, but Thaxton turned away, disappointed at losing his title.

Promoter Mick Hennessy consoled Thaxton after his defeat. Could this be the end for the Norwich fighter?