Fury was awarded the victory after the 10-round contest

The British Boxing Board of Control has ordered a rematch of the English heavyweight championship contest between Tyson Fury and John McDermott.

Referee Terry O'Connor awarded the 12 September fight to Manchester's Fury 98-92, despite most observers feeling McDermott had done enough for victory.

The BBBofC accepted the decision was controversial and the rematch will take place before the end of the year.

The board also said O'Connor could continue as a Class A Star Referee.

A statement on the BBBofC website read: "In everyone's view the contest was competitive and the outcome controversial.

"In light of the explanation and his record, ability and experience, the board has allowed O'Connor to continue as a referee."

606: DEBATE Good decision from the BBBofC and I think Fury will win it properly this time around Jonnyaiston

Fury, 21 was awarded the decision after a 10-round contest in Brentwood, Essex.

McDermott's promoter Frank Maloney was furious after the result was announced, saying: "I'm sure I will be called up before the (British Boxing) Board for my behaviour but Terry O'Connor is a disgrace to British boxing for what he's done here."

Essex fighter McDermott, 29, was also on the end of a controversial points defeat when he fought British heavyweight champion Danny Williams last July.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version