Tyrone Nurse suffered disappointment in his Commonwealth light-welterweight title bid as Derby’s Dave Ryan edged a thriller on points at Leeds Arena.

It was only a second career defeat for the 24-year-old Huddersfield boxer, who was floored in each of the two opening rounds but fought back strongly.

Those early shots counted as Ryan, nicknamed Rocky, took a close decision 114-113 (twice) and 113-113 to claim the vacant belt.

Nurse called the knock downs “stupid”, adding: “I got caught with silly jabs to start with and I’m going to have to learn and start doing what I’m supposed to do.

“I felt good in training and in the changing rooms before, but my boxing wasn’t great. But I’m still a baby, and I’ll come back, I’m sure.

“Maybe I was over-confident, but full credit to Dave. It was a tough fight, and he gave it his all and took the belt.”

Ryan said: “I fought my heart out and I’m just so glad I got the decision. It was a close fight and could have gone either way.

“I’ve got a strong jab and I think he underestimated the power. But he gave me the hardest fight I’ve ever had and it was a pleasure to share the ring with him.”