I can mix with the best - Lawton

Lawton contemplated retirement if he lost to Derry Matthews

Scott Lawton believes he can compete at super-featherweight after beating former world champion Derry Matthews.

The 33-year-old, from Stoke-on-Trent, stopped Matthews in the sixth round of their bout at Fenton Manor on Friday.

Lawton told BBC Radio Stoke: "He thought he was world class and I've proven that he isn't. I've proved I can mix with the best in this division.

"I just want to box whoever's about. At my age, I can't expect to pick and choose who I box against."

It was Lawton's first fight since moving down from lightweight to super-featherweight, having failed to win the British title against John Murray in June.

Prior to the contest, Lawton said he would probably retire if he lost to Matthews.

"It definitely was the biggest fight of my career," said Lawton. "Before I went in there I said to my trainer that I had more fights left and I wasn't going to let it get away from me.

"It wasn't easier than I expected, it was very mentally draining. I couldn't switch off for a minute."

Lawton has now taken his professional record to 27 wins, five losses and one draw.