Linus Udofia: Nigerian-born boxer says swollen eye cost him against Kieron Conway

Kieron Conway and Linus Udofia's fight for the British middleweight title appeared to be a long, close-fought contest.

However, Conway defeated Udofia by decision despite barely having to go out of second gear.

While Udofia circled, jabbed Conway in the stomach, and attempted to land an overhand right, Conway, who was physically dominant, took the center of the ring.

Conway pushed forward behind a tight defense and a long jab, and Udofia was waiting for the best time to release his right hand.

There were incredibly few clean blows being delivered, but Conway seemed to have the upper hand.

Udofia was determined not to let another opportunity at the Lonsdale belt pass him after his attempt to win the British title last year ended in a thrilling decision loss to Denzel Bentley.

As the fight dragged on Conway was content to bide his time and creep about the ring behind a jab while Udofia appeared apprehensive of launching an all-out assault.

Udofia was However, he was unable to gain any momentum as the fight closed on.

Conway eventually felt that it was time to add some urgency to his task.

In the fifth, Udofia was briefly shocked with a left hook before his right eye abruptly slammed shut.

Referee Howard Foster closely examined Udofia's closed eye as the sixth round was about to begin and called it off.

While Udofia must rebuild, Conway secured the victory and set himself up for a shot at the British championship still held by Bentley.

After the fight, Udofia took to his official social media platforms to give an update on his health.

He agreed that the referee was right to end the fight as the swollen eye cost him.

He said, "I’m ok, no fractures or breaks 🙏🏾

"The ref made the right decision, my eye was shut, I felt I boxed to a T.. it’s boxing 🥊

"We’ll be back.. Thank you @kieronconwayboxing @matchroomboxing for the opportunity & congratulations 👏🏾

"We’ll be back, I love you all 🧡"

The Luton Town raised Udofia will now aim to rebuild his career for another challenge next year.