Boxing: Rios proves too strong for Murray

John Murray suffered an 11th-round defeat to Brandon Rios as the Manchester fighter failed in his bid to become WBA lightweight champion in New York.

Murray began the fight promisingly, but the Madison Square Garden bout began to unravel for the 26-year-old Briton when Rios drew blood in the sixth round, and the American pressed home his advantage. Murray was docked a point for a low blow in round seven.

There was a brief flurry from gallant Murray in round nine, but it was momentary and he landed few meaningful shots.

Rios was showing a greater command of the big stage, and come the 11th round it was all one way, Murray, with his face badly swollen, taking some fierce hits from his opponent.

Rios streamed down punches almost from the bell, initially from arm’s length but then from closer range, and Murray’s defence was proving ineffective. He was taking shot after shot to the head, prompting the referee to step in and stop the fight.

The defeat was the second in succession for Murray, following a loss to domestic rival Kevin Mitchell in July.