Edinburgh fighter Stephen Simmons failed in his bid to become Scotland’s first-ever British cruiserweight champion when he was defeated by Englishman Matty Askin at London’s York Hall on Saturday night.

Simmons was the heavy underdog ahead of the fight, with Askin looking to make his first defence of his British title.

The 33-year-old Scot started well, putting in a strong first-round performance. However, in the second, he was tagged by an early hook to the body, before a left-hand shot to the solar plexus sent him to the canvas.

Simmons, who won the IBF European Cruiserweight title last year, failed to make the count and the fight was stopped 1 minute 52 seconds into round two.

The Scot, nicknamed ‘The Monster’, had talked ahead of the fight that he was considering retiring from boxing were he to win the British title but following the defeat, only the third of his professional career, it remains to be seen what direction he goes in now.

Despite his frustration about the loss though, Simmons was magnanimous in defeat, saying on Twitter: “Gutted is an understatement from last night but very well done to @mattyaskin on the win.

“Landed the perfect shot right in the solar plex. Wishing you all the best for your next step in the ring. Gentleman and family man.”