Brian Magee's prospects of making a defence of his IBO super-middleweight title in his native Belfast in January have taken a nosedive.

His promoter Barry Hearn has let it be known that he was far from impressed with Magee's display in Saturday's points win over American Jose Spearman.

Hearn revealed that TV bosses were disappointed with Magee's performance and added that the super-middleweight would not get his wish of a title defence in Belfast during January.

"I'm not sure what the next step is for Brian," Hearn told the Belfast Telegraph.

"He has to accept part of the blame for Saturday night's performance. I was hugely disappointed.

"Negative Spearman"

"He and his team have to take responsibility, take stock and think again about just how they are approaching things.

"Brian's a great guy but he has to improve. Television do not want to see fights like that," added Hearn.

Magee is certain to be taken aback by Hearn's comments.

Magee's coach Harry Hawkins claimed after the fight that Spearman's "negative approach" had spoiled the contest.

However, Hearns feels the Magee was far too tentative.