Michael Lomax is considering his fighting future after failing in a gallant bid to take Kell Brook's British welterweight title

Michael Lomax is considering his fighting future after failing in a gallant bid to take Kell Brook's British welterweight title in Manchester on Saturday.

Lomax, a member of Paul Cook's stable, suffered his second defeat in a six-year pro career against the talented Sheffield fighter, who lived up to his 'Special K' nickname.

An ABA title winner during his amateur career at Stepney's Broad Street BC, Lomax had hopes of a British title success to highlight his pro campaign, but he failed against an outstanding champion who looks a genuine prospect for world honours.

Lomax made a bold bid to upset Brook in the opening round, spearing his long-range southpaw punches through his rival's defences, but the champion fired back with some explosive shots of his own.

That set the pattern for the rounds that followed as the 30-year-old challenger found himself outgunned by the accurate and effective punches of impressive Brook.

The Sheffield ace did most of the damage with solid right-hands, which left Lomax staggering and referee Dave Parris stopped the contest with 19 seconds remaining in the third round.

The outcome saw Brook record his 20th straight victory and earn the Lonsdale belt outright.