Sam Sexton [right] challenged Martin Rogan for the Commonwealth heavyweight title (all pictures by Getty Images/John Gichigi).

Despite a 13-year age difference, the pair have similar professional records, but Rogan had the support of the 10,000-strong crowd.

Both fighters are previous winners of the Prizefighter tournament, but fight with vastly different styles.

Rogan, a former taxi-driver, is all about power, while Sexton prefers to box and move.

As the fight wore on Sexton's class began to tell, with Rogan's left eye swelling heavily.

Sexton was landing shot after shot but the durable Rogan refused to give up.

At the end of the seventh round it was clear the fight would not last due to the swelling round Rogan's eye.

Knowing it was his last chance, Rogan had Sexton on the floor in the eighth, but missed his chance to knock him out.

Moments later, with Rogan seemingly unable to see though the bruising, referee Dave Parris had no choice but call in the doctor.

To the Belfast crowd's displeasure the fight was stopped, and Sexton crowned Commonwealth champion in just his 13th professional fight.

Where Sexton goes next isn't yet clear, but Rogan will undoubtedly be hungry for a rematch.