Rocky Dean's hopes of ending his title-fight losing streak were crushed by Jason Booth in their clash for the British super-bantamweight title at York Hall
Rocky Dean's hopes of ending his title-fight losing streak were crushed by classy Jason Booth in their clash for the British super-bantamweight title at York Hall last week.
Since winning the Southern Area title against Mick Coveney at Dagenham's Goresbrook Leisure Centre in March 2005, Dean has battled through six title contests - and all have been brave failures.
Half of those six bouts have been close enough for argument, but last week's defeat against a skilful champion was not up for debate.
All three ringside judges had Booth a clear winner, with only a single round scored in favour of the popular Peacock Gym-trained Dean.
The 31-year-old had been looking to highlight his 10-year pro campaign with the British title success.
But Booth was at his best at long distance and in the close-quarter exchanges, with his more versatile attacks, the Nottingham ace had too much for the game challenger.
"Take it from me, that Rocky Dean is one game so and so, he'll give anyone a hard fight," said Booth.
There was also a points defeat for a second Peacock Gym at York Hall as previously unbeaten featherweight Akaash Bhatia finished a narrow points loser against Cwmbran's Jamie Arthur in their final eliminator for the British title.
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