Cleverly v Bellew as it happened

1. Tony Bellew beats Nathan Cleverly on points - split decision
2. Cleverly v Bellew II goes 12 rounds
3. Anthony Joshua beats Michael Sprott in 1min 26secs
4. George Groves stops Denis Douglin in 7th round
5. James DeGale stops Marco Antonio Periban in 3rd round

Right then. Tony Bellew's off for a pizza, I'm off home. Thanks, once again, for your company. Night all.

BBC Radio 5 live

Promoter Eddie Hearn: "It was weird one, six rounds were technical then they stood in one place and tried to attack each other. I was surprised by one judge giving it to Cleverly. They both looked very tired. I expected a knockout. Nathan might have been up after the first half but Tony's size and strength sapped the energy out of Nathan Cleverly. I expected Tony to get a world title shot next year."

Tony Bellew, speaking on BBC Radio 5 live: "I'm not bad for a fat lad. I'm going to go and have a pizza now."

Tony Bellew, speaking on BBC Radio 5 live: "I'm a man of my word, I won't do the embrace or shake his hand. I said to him that I didn't think he was a cruiserweight. He said 'possibly not'."

Get involved

Matt Ruck: A disappointing fight in the end, and how a judge saw the fight in favour of Cleverly is beyond me!

Tony Bellew, speaking on BBC Radio 5 live: "I got him in the corner and roughed him up, it was old school. It was only after seven rounds when I realised I wouldn't get hit with a big shot. I began to creep forward and he was always on the back foot."

Tony Bellew, speaking on BBC Radio 5 live: "I was getting tagged but I was just walking through it. I love the sport and the glory of it - I just can't quit. I feel like crying - I'm so happy to get home to my three kids. Winning means so much to me. I was gutted about the split decision, I think I won nine rounds.

"I overdo it a little bit in the build-up and the public probably hate me at times and I am wrong but I can't help the way I am. I don't want to go drinking and partying now. I want to see my kids - I told my 9-year-old today that the fight had been delayed for a week because I had hurt my hand. I just didn't want him to know I was fighting."

Mike Costello

BBC boxing commentator

"Tony Bellew's career suddenly takes on a whole new momentum now."

Get involved

John Delaney: One of the judges gave that fight to Cleverly? Blimey!

andrew shaw: Let's have number 3, that sounds good

Tony Bellew on Sky Sports: "I don't like him but it has been settled. I have outworked a great athlete and it is done with. There is not going to be an embrace but it is over and done with."

Nathan Cleverly: "I said it would be a replica version of the first fight but more explosive. The majority decision and it is one apiece. It shows my character, I have come up a weight. His strength showed in the second half. He was using his natural strength and made it pay. 1-1 maybe we will have third fight."

Bellew: "If this can fill the Millennium Stadium, I will go there. I will fight anywhere. I know he is not a cruiserweight and he knows that."

Tony Bellew is the deserved winner of the fight, with Nathan Cleverly seemingly running out of steam. While being interviewed by the television cameras, Cleverly asks for a third clash in Wales. A decider, with both men winning one clash each. Bellew's response? "Let's do it."

Get involved #bbcboxing

Luke Pearce: Same old British boxing failing to live up to the hype of the media.

Bellew wins on a split decision

Tony Bellew can hardly believe it - one judge gives the fight to Cleverly, 115-114. The other two score it 116-112 and 115-113 for Bellew.

Bellew stands and asks the judge in question - Terry O'Connor - why he gave the fight to Cleverly, looking on in disbelief even as he is announced the winner.

Split decision!

Here comes the decision...

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Cleverly really could have an injury. It was such a change in tactics around the eighth round when he just backed up onto the ropes."

Tony Bellew celebrates at the final bell, while Nathan Cleverly begins to pace the perimeter of the ring. He should have done that earlier!

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Tremendous performance from Bellew. I am still unsure about what has happened to Nathan Cleverly. I suspect he has an injury to his right hand."

Round 12

Can Nathan Cleverly stop his opponent and rip up the judges' scorecards? Nope, he's got nothing left. He's just letting Bellew work away, yet the Liverpudlian can't apply a finishing touch.

As we enter the final 90 seconds of the fight, the crowd gets louder. Their man, Bellew, is almost there. The pair shuffle into the centre of the ring for one last stand, then the bell goes. We're going to the judges. Surely Bellew has got this in the bag?

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I'm actually wondering if Cleverly has got an injury. He is either tired or injured."

Nate Williams, BBC Sport, ringside

"Bellew is upping the intensity, with Cleverly's work rate slowing. But Cleverly is using every ounce of energy to avoid those big swings from the Bomber as the crowd roar their hometown hero's name - urging him to find a finish. But Cleverly hangs on for the last stand in the final round."

Round 11

Nathan Cleverly just can't raise himself from the ropes. Tony Bellew is working away, trying to find that one punch which breaks the Welshman's resistance. There's no tactics now - he's just throwing as much as he can muster, and Cleverly is offering nothing in return. A right over the top misses its target. Bellew has enough time to just stand and look for an opening.

The photographers beneath the ropes can hardly believe their luck - they've enjoyed almost three minutes of close-up action. No excuses from you tonight, lads.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I am amazed at the tactics from Nathan Cleverly. Just standing on the ropes and inviting pressure. Totally the wrong thing to do."

Round 10

Both men are running on empty now. Who wants this the most? The pair get in close, heads bowed and punches being exchanged. Tony Bellew is landing the better shots and is wobbled by a crashing right to the side of the head. The Welshman is inviting trouble as he leans on the ropes, head swaying. Every punch thrown seems a big effort, every punch received sucking the energy out of the recipient. Cleverly heads back to his corner and gets some stark news from his team: "You need to stop him now," they say.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Bellew took that round clearly. Too many times he had Cleverly on the ropes. Cleverly was punching back but Bellew was landing the better shots."

Round nine

Better from Tony Bellew who suddenly looks to have more snap and power in his combinations. He stalks Nathan Cleverly who continues with his left jab line of attack. He's banking on the cumulative effect. Bellew is pinned on the ropes and is punished with a booming left. It's turning into a decent scrap now. The crowd becomes excitable.

The pair become entrenched on the ropes - Bellew pounding away and Cleverly looking in big trouble. No footwork now - it's stand and deliver stuff. A brilliant end to the round for the home favourite.

The Times's Tony Barrett ‏on Twitter: Can't work out why (maybe an injury?) but Cleverly seems strangely reluctant to throw a right.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I have Cleverly one round up now. He didn't throw much more than the jab but he is starting to frustrate Bellew."

Round eight

The fight's toll is beginning to show on the face of both men. Tony Bellew continues to force the pace, but Nathan Cleverly appears to be manoeuvring himself into a position to let go of a few big shots. A solid right crashes into the side of Bellew's face, a booming right then missing its target. A decent left follows, with the Welshman smiling and looking much fresher as we close in on the championship rounds.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I have gone with Cleverly. Bellew was getting caught with quick jabs."

Round seven

A good right from Tony Bellew smashes into the side of Nathan Cleverly's face. Jab, jab, jab from the Welshman. Both men are finding each other awkward opponents, it's a fascinating clash of styles. Boom... both men register big shots, both men shrug their shoulders and go back for more. Cleverly is looking more nimble on his feet as he evades a couple of decent shots from the Bomber. Is the home favourite tiring?

Nate Williams, BBC Sport, ringside

"Into the second half of the fight - most of the journalists at ringside here in Liverpool have Bellew winning comfortably by three or four rounds with Cleverly offering very little in response to Bellew's composed boxing, mixed with short bursts of aggression. It's clear the Liverpool fighter wants to punish his opponent through the late rounds."

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Very close indeed. I just think Tony Bellew is starting to tire."

Round six

Both men try and work on the inside now. Busy punching from the pair. Tony Bellew feigns a charge and Nathan Cleverly dodges it. The Englishman's booming right over the top fails to find its target.

Nathan Cleverly shows nimble footwork to escape being cornered on the ropes. Bellew begins to get into position for the big shot. The Welshman continues to try and dictate with his jab but is caught to the back of the head. Tense stuff.

Get involved

Gary Parker: Go on Nathan open that cut up on Bellew and finish him off #TeamCleverly.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Cleverly is doing well with the jab but I just don't think he is doing enough. I have given the last two rounds to Bellew."

Round five

Is Nathan Cleverly keeping some gas in reserve for the later rounds? Letting Tony Bellew punch himself out? Risky business. Bellew continues to force the pace, but the tempo has dropped a little. Nathan Cleverly attacks the body, Bellew counters. A duck and a weave from the Bomber who crashes a left uppercut into the ribs. Hands down, both men teasing the other into making a big move.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Cleverly is not doing enough work. He let it slip in that round. I have Bellew 3-1 up."

Round four

Rather like world champion Scott Quigg earlier in the night, Tony Bellew is happy to build the pressure with single punches. Will he bring out the combinations later in the fight? Will it get that far? Still fairly even but Nathan Cleverly is dropping his guard after his jab - stopping to showboat, too. Tony Bellew misses with a right, again Cleverly drops his hand and Bellew pins his opponent on the ropes, raining down the blows. The Bomber might have edged that round too.

The Daily Star's Chris McKenna ‏on Twitter: Cut opening further on Bellew. Could have a big say. Cleverly getting the better of the jab exchanges.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It was a battle of the jabs in the third round. It is working quite nicely for Bellew."

Nate Williams, BBC Sport, ringside

"At this point in their last meeting, Tony Bellew broke his right hand as he laboured to his first career loss. Now it is Bellew who is boxing comfortably on the front foot - snapping Cleverly's head back with the jab and looking for the occasional power shot to unsettle the Welshman's nerves."

Round three

Tony Bellew attacks Nathan Cleverly's body, trying to get inside. The Welshman's defence looks solid though - his arms tightly packed together to repel the Bomber. Cleverly continues to lead with his left and Bellew counters with a right which snaps back his opponent's head. A strong right from Bellew hits the spot, so does a crunching left. Cleverly is pinned on the ropes, but the referee steps in and warns the home favourite for low blows. The Englishman edges that round.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"There is a slight cut on Tony Bellew. Another tight round but I am going for Cleverly in that one."

Round two

Busy from Tony Bellew who is forcing the pace. Nathan Cleverly puffs his cheeks out as he is caught flush in the face. Bellew leads with his left, then leans on the ropes. Jab, jab, jab from Cleverly - a Mensa-grade maths graduate in a previous life. Neither man has unloaded a big booming shot yet, but plenty of attritional stuff is finding its target. Both men look well matched. Not much in this.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"We thought it was going to be close and that first round was extremely close. A good start from Cleverly but Bellew then got through with the bigger punches. It could have gone either way but the round might just go to Bellew.

Round one

Nathan Cleverly lands with a left jab, with Tony Bellew having an early look - an early jab being countered by the Welshman. Both men are happy to clash in the middle of the ring and meet head on. No shirking - this is business. Bellew goes for a left-right combination. He connects. A strong right then a body shot finds its target. Bellew finishes the round strongly.

Seconds out

Let's settle this feud once and for all.

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney: Got goosebumps of @TonyBellew entrance.

Enjoy the Everton tune then Wayne?

A moment of pause for Tony Bellew, who crouches in his corner. Head bowed. Make or break for both men this. Expect an explosive start from the man nicknamed Bomber.

QPR midfielder Joseph Barton ‏on Twitter: Here we go. Hope it lives up to the pre-fight talk.

So do we Joey...

The two boxers prowl the ring like caged animals. They cannot wait to tear into each other. We're almost set now.

Tony Bellew has opted for the Rocky-style gown for his entrance. Nathan Cleverly was bare-chested. Two very different men. Two very big rivals.

Tony Bellew, large smile plastered across his face, has a fierce, menacing air about him as he struts and dances his way to the ring.

One big roar. One hometown hero. Ladies and gentleman, here comes one Tony Bellew. Accompanied by the Z Cars theme tune, of course.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Cleverly is wearing bright red shorts. The red for Wales and the red for Liverpool. Maybe a psychological edge for him there. He looks very, very confident."

A confident, purposeful walk from Nathan Cleverly who fist-pumps in the crowd's direction before ducking between the ropes. He then begins to strut around the ring - his camp spraying water into his face.

Get involved

Rory Zachilroy: Bellew is a pretty confident talker, kinda annoys me how he continues to be so certain, not giving Cleverly a chance.

Nathan Cleverly is introduced to the crowd and roundly booed. There is one small part of Wales tucked into a corner of the venue, where Cleverly supporters stand with trademark bandanas.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I don't think Bellew will be able to come back mentally from this if it goes the wrong way. He may have to retire if he loses. How does the loser come back? The winner gets it all."

'We will rock you' is belted out over the sound system. The Queen version, of course. No need to be playing the 5ive version to boxing fans.

Get involved

Mario Balotelli is ringside for the boxing tonight (22:17 GMT)

Gary Briddick: Super Mario is injured so not involved with Liverpool tomorrow and has permission to be there.

PA

'Where is everybody?'

Getty Images

Did you see any of the pre-fight behind the scenes programmes? Did you see Nathan Cleverly and Joe Calzaghe playing pool? They weren't very good, were they? It's a good job they're decent boxers.

Former world champion Calzaghe might be forgiven for being distracted. To put it bluntly, he's not happy with some of Tony Bellew's recent jibes about his fellow Welshman.

"He's always talking, he talks about how much he hates Nathan, how Nathan is this and that and quite often, how Nathan doesn't compare to me," Calzaghe told the South Wales Argus.

"He says Nathan can't sell tickets like I used to, but I only started selling out my venues after the Jeff Lacy fight, really. I had plenty of nights at the Cardiff Ice Rink where I'd look about and think 'where is everyone?' and I'd been a world champion for five or six years!

"So that's another silly comparison really, but like I say, it isn't Nathan who makes them."

Big fight prediction

BBC Radio 5 live

Heavyweight Anthony Joshua: "I am known for sitting on the fence but for Liverpool's sake I want Tony Bellew to win. I just hope they both shake hands and show each other some respect at the end. It takes a man to get in there."

Carragher's rivals

Getty Images

There's more chance of Carl Froch having George Groves round for tea and biscuits than these two sharing pleasantries, and ex-Liverpool and England footballer Jamie Carragher has been talking about the rivalry between his good friend Tony Bellew and Nathan Cleverly in the build-up.

When asked by the Liverpool Echo if he had rivalries of his own during his career, Carragher said: "Every Everton player!

"But it's teams so it is different so there is a lot more involved when it is between individuals, there is a lot more needle.

"But there's no doubt that you come up against certain players who you come up against a lot and you want to get the better of them - especially in those big games such as Everton, United, Chelsea. There are always players in those games you, every now and again, you want to leave one on."

Big Evertonian

Tony Bellew spends a lot of time with the Everton footballers during the week - often training with the footballers as part of his preparations.

"The whole football club is behind Tony Bellew," Martinez told the Liverpool Echo. "It's great to see an elite boxer working the way he does. He's a great Evertonian. We enjoy having Tony training here and seeing him about."

Reaction

Anthony Joshua on Sky Sports: "I have to go back to the room and do another nine rounds of pads now. I have to finish off what I started. I don't like to make predictions but I will train to get in peak condition and I reckon I will be able to take Kevin Johnson out next. It will be a good move for me."

'Train, eat, sleep, repeat'

When asked to describe his training camp ahead of the fight, Nathan Cleverly replied: "Train, eat, sleep, repeat."

Sounds good that. Not the training part, obviously.

Anyway, there's been one extra thing in Tony Bellew's preparation: football. The mad-keen Everton fan watches every match on the television and will surely be buoyed by today's victory for the Toffees against West Ham.

A few of the Everton team have hot-footed it to the Echo Arena to watch the big fight.

'A dump? No it's my palace'

AP

Tony Bellew is born and bred in Liverpool, and he credits that upbringing with instilling in him a "fascination" with some of boxing's bad boys.

"I was always fascinated with Mike Tyson and Nigel Benn, people who came from backgrounds like I did," he also told the Daily Mail.

"I'm from an unforgiving neighbourhood but it's great. I grew up with loving people. I've got the same friends I had when I was 10. Some would say it's a dump but to me, it's a palace."

'I used to stuff pillows for a living'

Tony Bellew has certainly grafted his way to the top. The previous employment section on his CV would break one or two printers, and it certainly means he doesn't take anything for granted.

"I've been a labourer, I've worked security, I've worked the door at nightclubs, been a lifeguard, worked in retail. I even worked in a pillow factory," Bellew revealed in the Daily Mail. "Getting £150 a week to stuff pillows makes you appreciate the good things.

"I worked from seven till four and then it was straight to the gym. I won my first title during the 12 months I was there and that made me realise how hard I had to work to go further."

It's almost time for the main event...

Get involved

Keith Shearman: Ballotelli should be in bed, there's a very important game tomorrow.

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli looks as though he is in for a late one as he is in the Echo Arena waiting for Bellew v Cleverley. With Crystal Palace away tomorrow, perhaps an injury?

PA

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Brilliant by Joshua. He was quite measured, took what punches were thrown by Michael Sprott, and once he connected he just did not let him off the hook."

Sensational stuff from Anthony Joshua. He landed some devastating shots with both hands as Michael Sprott - a veteran of 65 fights - cowered on the ropes. A wrecking ball of a boxer. He took just one minute and 28 seconds to register his 10th career victory, all of which have been secured inside the distance.

Joshua wins in the first round

Hit and run, hit and run. Michael Sprott is throwing some early shots and then swiftly vacating the scene. Anthony Joshua is unperturbed and drives Sprott to the ropes with a flurry of punches. All over!

Seconds out

Here we go.

Anthony Joshua steps into the ring and crouches in his corner, where he says a quick prayer.

The 10,000-strong crowd cheers rising star Anthony Joshua to the ring. The 25-year-old is probably the last person I'd want to meet at 11pm on a Saturday night. There's not an inch of fat on him - he's a lean, mean fighting machine.

Get involved

Stuart Ingram: James DeGale beats a journeyman and gives it the mouth. St George Groves beats a fighter and keeps it dignified! Gulf in class.

DJ Williams: Froch used to beg Calzaghe for the same chance he's now denying DeGale.

Michael Sprott, who turns 40 in January, makes his way to the ring for this British heavyweight title eliminator.

Big fight prediction

Carl Froch

World super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is going to be a great fight. The first fight was very close and I think the rematch is going to be the same until the point you will get your answer, when Tony Bellew connects on the chin. Cleverly is not suited to a cruiserweight like Bellew. Bellew was a heavyweight as an amateur, but when Cleverly turned professional he was light heavyweight. Cleverly is going to be looking for the fight, to out-box and win on points. My feeling is that Bellew is going to finish him with a shot either mid or late fight."

'No respect'

At least there will be respect shown once the bell goes. Or will there?

"There will still be no respect whatsoever," said Bellew. "When I did show respect after the first fight, it wasn't given back and I'll never forgive that for as long as I live."

That's that then.

'A personal battle'

Because of the bad blood between the two, Nathan Cleverly says beating Tony Bellew would "eclipse winning the world title".

"I've got to win this fight," he said. "This is a personal battle, the grudge.

"I've got no option, I've got to win this fight and really silence this guy. He needs silencing once and for all."

While we wait for Anthony Joshua to make his entrance, let's hear from the protagonists in the main event.

Thanks Andy. Anthony Joshua is currently shadow boxing in front of a wall in his dressing room. Should he accidentally connect with the brick wall, the Liverpool Echo Arena might find its foundations wobble.

We are getting closer to the main event between Nathan Cleverly and Tony Bellew but not before we see Anthony Joshua in action. What a prospect this boy is and Marc Higginson is your man to take you through it...

Reaction

George Groves, speaking to Sky Sports Box Office: "My coach says it was a 5/10 display. I'll have a look back at it, but I'd probably agree. Fighting a southpaw is a new experience and just what I needed. I had to change my distance and range and find my radar to someone with an opposite style. It's good to get a stoppage and now I want to roll on for the next one. I want the quickest route to a world title."

PA

Easy enough in the end for George Groves but he took his time to grow into that fight. Douglin made it harder for the Londoner than it should have been. But ultimately Groves's power was simply too big.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"That's a good win for George. He was so eager to impress the crowd in the early rounds and it spoilt his work a little bit. Once he got his jab going, Groves looked good. I was worried early on but as the rounds went on, he stayed calm and finished the job well."

PA

Round seven - Groves wins by stoppage

Groves's coach Paddy Fitzpatrick looked to be having a few strong words with his man at the break, knowing this has been too close for comfort against a journeyman middleweight. Douglin is looking increasingly desperate as he grabs Groves at every opportunity. Bang. Douglin is down as a right follows up a big body shot. The American is all over the shop and, as Groves hammers the pressure, the fight is stopped. Game over.

Getty Images

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion

"Mentally, George Groves is more switched on. His movement is better, he's using his jab better and throwing big shots down the centre."

Round six

Douglin's mum Saphya has a few words of encouragement for her boy, who is looked tired, in the corner. He doesn't respond though as Groves takes control. Douglin is looking as though he has blown himself out as Groves lands with some sharp hits. The American is still landing now and again to the body but more often than not he is missing. He gets a breather to do up his laces but Groves is still looking the sharper. Good one-two from Groves but at the halfway stage, this is a little bit disappointing from "the Saint".

Round five

Douglin comes out strong again as he pins Groves in the corner and roughs his opponent up a bit. Groves is landing with his right more but it is all far too rugged for his liking. The Londoner attempts a big hook, misses, and Douglin takes advantage with a few hits to the body. Good combination from the Groves, who then works the body, but Douglin comes back and lands with his own left before the bell. Good stuff.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"It was a better round from George Groves. He's putting a lot of power into his shots, but he shouldn't get too carried away. He shouldn't engage too much and stick to his boxing."

Round four

Groves has come out fighting here. Looking a different fighter as he pushes forward and connects with a couple of punches. This is the Groves we expected as he knocks all the confidence out of Douglin. It is as though a cut on his nose has woken Groves up. Douglin is pinned in the corner, takes a few shots but is still standing.

Mike Costello

BBC boxing commentator

"It has been confirmed by the referee that it was an accidental clash of heads which caused the cut on the bridge of George Groves' nose."

Round three

Better from Groves. He is asking the American to come forward now and looking to pick him off. Douglin's southpaw stance is still proving problematic though for a boxer way off his best so far. Douglin may have "momma's boy' on his shorts but he is no softy judging by these first couple of rounds. He lands again with a big left hand and Groves is struggling here. Douglin's coach and mum Saphya, will be more than happy in his corner at the moment.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion

"A scrappy round again. George Groves got caught with a terrific left hand. He's trying to lead with the right hand and fell short."

Round two

Douglin lands a couple of big left handers as Groves gambles by stepping in. The Londoner is looking a tad reckless in his attack and Douglin is taking advantage of his lack of defence. The American's southpaw stance looks to be causing a few problems but Groves has his best flurry of the fight as he connects with a couple of right handers. A good end to the round for Groves.

Round one

Not many punches landed in a cautious start. Douglin looks to get in close to Groves and hang on. The closer he gets the less Groves can hurt him. The American has held his own in that round and might even have taken it. Groves has to step this up.

Groves is defending his WBC Silver super-middleweight title against Denis Douglin and it is a fight he really should not be losing.

He claimed the WBC Silver title and European crown last time out against Christopher Rebrasse in September in his comeback from his two defeats to Carl Froch. Fight on here

Super Mario in Liverpool

Next up is 'Saint' George Groves and Liverpool's Mario Balotelli is in the crowd looking as though he is loving it. A quiet night for Mario I'm sure.

Liverpool play Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park tomorrow at 13:30 GMT

Getty Images

Carl Froch

World super-middleweight champion

Speaking on Sky Sports Box Office about the possibility of facing James DeGale: "Boxing is a business and I've got a promoter - Eddie Hearn - who if the fight makes commercial sense, it will happen. I want to fight in Las Vegas. If the fight could happen in Las Vegas, let's go over there and do it. But it's probably not going to happen. I've earned the right to decide where I fight next."

James DeGale on Sky Sports: "I was just getting warmed up, I'm telling you I'm one of the best. We're making history."

On the possibility of fighting Carl Froch for the IBF super-middleweight title, DeGale said: "Listen, Carl's a fighting man and it is hard for me to disrespect him - but he's being a bit of a coward and it feels like he doesn't want to fight me."

PA

Who next for DeGale

So who next for James DeGale? Carl Froch? George Groves? Going to be tasty if it is either of them.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"There is bad blood between James DeGale and George Groves and that could help sell out Wembley Stadium. Maybe Carl Froch will vacate one of his titles because DeGale versus Groves needs to be a world title contest."

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion

"It seems strange that the referee didn't give Periban a count, at least."

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"That was a premature stoppage. He was as shocked as Periban was. I say DeGale needs to stop throwing hooks and it's a hook which wins the fight! That's a real statement from DeGale."

DeGale wins after stoppage

Massive left hand from DeGale early in the third and he follows that up with another. Periban is down and the fight is stopped. Job done. What a hit from the Londoner. It lands plum in the face and the second left isn't bad either as the Mexican's legs go from under him.

PA

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"It's all hooks from James DeGale, I'd like to see him tighten it up a little bit and not throw these wild shots. He's a classy boxer, but he's looking scrappy."

Round two

DeGale is on his toes and keeps coming at the Mexican. Better from Periban though as he lands with a left but his opponent keeps coming forward. Periban is on the ropes but manages to duck and dive his way out of the way of a couple of big right-handers. Periban is no mug and after a slow start shows that in this round. DeGale has a fight on his hands and that round is tough to call.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion

"James DeGale boxed very well there, showing glimpses of brilliance with his right hook. Periban is going to be tested tonight."

Round one

Big start from DeGale as he steps forward and lands a chunky right hand. Positive stuff from the 2008 Olympic champion as he looks to prove a point. A right-left combination is landed and Periban looks as though he wants to be anywhere but in the ring with a big-hitting opponent. This might not last long as the bell goes for the end of the first.

Getty Images

DeGale is the mandatory challenger for Carl Froch's IBF super-middleweight title, but is being forced to wait for the champion to make a decision about his future.

If he doesn't get that he may target George Groves. This fight first though, we are under way.

DeGale v Periban

So what does have James DeGale have then?

It won't be easy for the 2008 Olympic champion against former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban but if he wants the big fights, he needs to win fights like this.

Getty Images

Quality stuff from Scott Quigg then. Next it's James DeGale. Andy Cryer's your man for this one.

Reaction

Scott Quigg on Sky Sports: "He soaked all my shots up. Fair play to him, he was a tough man."

Getty Images

Scott Quigg retains his WBA super-bantamweight title

He's done it. Bury's finest Scott Quigg is a unanimous winner - the judges scoring it 119-109, 119-109, 118-110. Never in doubt. A 30th career victory for the 26-year-old.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Quigg is a shut-out winner other than two rounds but Otake was a tough fighter, just his lack of fire power cost him. A good test for Quigg and he has come through it."

Round 12

Into the final three minutes of a bruising contest then. Hidenori Otake is coming forward and swinging, knowing he's likely to be behind on the scorecards. Scott Quigg stands his ground and selects his shots - his supreme fitness allowing him a clear mind at the end of a tiring contest. More body shots from the champion as the challenger continues to stand and fight. Two true warriors but we can only have one world champion. We're going to the judges' scorecards.

Getty Images

Daily Star's boxing reporter Chris McKenna on Twitter: Going to be a wide points win for the Manchester super-bantamweight Scott Quigg unless Otake pulls something dramatic out.

Round 11

Scott Quigg is going to need a sledgehammer to stop Hidenori Otake coming at him. The challenger's corner patch up their charge's cut eye. Referee Howard Foster again seeks advice from the doctors about the eye as it opens up again. There's claret everywhere, yet they fight on. Otake is pressuring Quigg and lands a solid right, but the champion bursts into life with a dazzling, quickfire combination. One more round to go.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It looks a bad cut. Lots of blood coming out and there was a lot of desperation from Otake."

Round 10

Scott Quigg continues to dish out the punishment. Hidenori Otake continues to soak it up, until referee Howard Foster temporarily stops the fight to get the ringside doctor to assess a gushing cut above Otake's right eye. Fight on, says the doc. Both men trade some more solid shots. A smile from Quigg at the end of the round.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Scott Quigg knows he is in a real scrap and that was a tremendous round. He needed that but what a challenger Otake is."

Round nine

Scott Quigg is landing some booming shots now but Hidenori Otake remains on the front foot. Working on the inside, Quigg gets a couple of uppercuts through and a right to the side of the head is countered by Otake. We're watching two very tough, durable boxers here. Despite being caught flush in the face, Otake just can't stop coming at the home fighter.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Very rarely in this contest have you seen Scott go forward and put Otake on the back foot. He needs to push him back."

Round eight

Scott Quigg's trainer Joe Gallagher tells his charge to follow up his single shots with one or two more in quick succession. It's time to change the pace. Hidenori Otake is chasing the fight now and leaving himself exposed as he telegraphs his right hooks. Quigg does as he's told and lands a decent combination. A tactical masterclass from the Bolton-based Quigg and Gallagher.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"The last couple of rounds I have struggled to separate them. Otake really fancies this but I don't think he can hurt Scott Quigg."

Round seven

Hidenori Otake doesn't look like he's going to tire any time soon. He does, however, walk into a solid right and Scott Quigg throws a right across his opponent which the Tokyo fighter narrowly evades. The next one lands, however. Quigg in firm control.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Otake has come to fight. I see Scott landing a couple of big shots soon though."

Round six

This fight is taking part in the centre of the ring. Neither man is retreating to the ropes. Scott Quigg is dancing around a bit more and making Hidenori Otake come searching from him - a change in tactics from the early rounds when he was working away on the inside. Still, the body shots are finding their target though. Otake is durable but doesn't look capable of taking Quigg's world title from him.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion

"Scott Quigg is winning the rounds but I would like him to go through the gears a bit more."

Round five

The longer this fight goes on, the stronger Scott Quigg will become. He couldn't be any fitter. He could do 15 rounds without breaking sweat. Quigg is beginning to look nimble on his feet and steps inside to crash another solid right into Hidenori Otake's midriff. Otake leads with the left, but Quigg can see it from miles out. Scratch that... the man from Tokyo gets two solid rights through Quigg's defences. Not bad.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"We saw in that round Scott landed three or four right hands. That is what he has to target. Otake has a slow jab and leaves his chin exposed. That is the shot that could cause a big knock out."

Round four

Scott Quigg lands another strong right and again Hidenori Otake's legs wobble. Not for long, though. As in previous rounds, the pair meet in the centre of the ring. It's real high-tempo stuff. Quigg finally unloads with a solid combination - catching Otake on the side of the face - and backs it up with some big shots over the top.

Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua on Twitter: Hand wrapping time. Putting together all the final touches.

The Olympic champion heavyweight will be in action against Michael Sprott soon and we will have live text commentary as well as coverage on BBC Radio 5 live.

Round three

This is an intriguing fight, with both men prepared to stand and trade. Scott Quigg is getting inside far too easily for Otake's liking - the Bury boxer getting some real power behind his shots from such a short distance. Otake is more rangy and wants to lead with his left, but he's not being allowed to do so by his busy opponent.

Richie Woodhall

Former world super-middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Tremendous round from Quigg. He caught his opponent with a terrific shot. The only thing is he is looking to hurt his rival with every shot and is maybe neglecting his boxing."

Round two

Hidenori Otake is not shy about coming forward, but Scott Quigg is probing away at the body and getting plenty of joy. Otake's ribs could be in for an uncomfortable night. Quigg is told off by referee Howard Foster for using his elbows, before he unloads a couple of stiff uppers. Otake is shaken by a strong right to the kidneys. The British fighter is on top.

Darren Barker

Former world middleweight champion on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"It was a good round for Quigg. He just won that. Otake has an annoying jab, he pushes it out but Quigg just about nicked that. Otake looks durable and looks as though he will hang around."

Round One

Scott Quigg takes his time early on, scoping out his opponent who he has only seen on sporadic internet videos before tonight. Otake leads with his left, while Quigg gets one through and into his opponent's body. The Japanese fighter is forcing the pace early on with the boy from Bury happy to work away on the inside and land some early, hurtful body shots.

Seconds out

Here we go then. Bury versus Tokyo. This is for the WBA super-bantamweight title.

And here comes Bury's finest... Scott Quigg, to the sound of Oasis's Rock and Roll Star. Indeed.

Here comes the bandana-wearing Hidenori Otake, who is fighting outside of Japan for the first time. The 33-year-old looks intensely focused and relaxed. Not a bad combo.

Scott Quigg really is one of the best young boxers in Britain. He's a devastating body puncher with a sound defence. He's on a collision course with Northern Ireland's brilliant Carl Frampton in the next 12-18 months. That will be some contest.

Getty Images

Scott Quigg (29-0-2) is coming up next and, speaking on Sky Sports, his stablemate Paul Smith has been raving about the undefeated Bury fighter.

"It's not because I see him in the gym but I could sit there all day and watch Scott Quigg," said Smith. "Some of the things he does amaze me. He is a technical perfectionist.

"Quigg will do 10 rounds just to warm up on a basic combination and he won't stop until he gets it right. With Quigg, the more you watch him and the more he progresses, he is getting better and better. What he does and the approach he takes put him above everybody else and that is why he is a world champion."

Quigg's opponent is Japan's Hidenori Otake, who has won 22 of his 26 fights. He has only lost once - back in 2007.

Carl Froch

World super-middleweight champion speaking to BBC Sport's Nate Williams

"Bellew has got to sit back and relax. I think he'll walk Cleverly onto a shot. If he comes out looking for the knockout early, he could come unstuck. It could go either way but Bellew is a different animal at cruiserweight. I sparred many rounds with him and he hits hard. I think he'll chin Cleverly late on and knock him out."

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

You can listen to all the build-up ahead of the big one, as well as coverage of the tasty-looking fights on the undercard, on BBC Radio 5 sports extra now. The coverage continues on BBC Radio 5 from 21:00 GMT.

Click on the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page to listen.

Crossing the line?

Perhaps the most sinister of Tony Bellew's jibes came this week, when he appeared to suggest Nathan Cleverly has a problem with drinking.

As the pair squared up during a heated head-to-head on Thursday, Bellew asked: "Been to any AA meetings lately?"

Cleverly was annoyed by the comment, saying his opponent was "horrible" and that the British Boxing Board of Control might intervene and punish Bellew for the comments.

The BBBC's General Secretary Robert Smith told the Daily Mail: "Mr Cleverly has no history of alcohol abuse. He has passed every medical and blood test and has never caused us concern."

Hot air

There's been plenty said in the build-up... enough to fire up a hot air balloon in fact.

But this rivalry feels real. Bellew genuinely dislikes Cleverly, apparently stemming from their last meeting when the Welshman told him in the ring that the Liverpudlian had given him his toughest fight. Only to say different in the subsequent post-fight news conference...

Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua on Twitter: Just arrived at the Echo Arena...Nearly fight time.

Heavyweight Joshua, the Olympic champion, has won his first nine professional fights by knockout and faces veteran Michael Sprott in Liverpool at some point after 21:00 GMT this evening.

Get involved

Boxthing from Bristol on text: It might not be Benn, Eubank and Watson but Callum Smith, Groves and DeGale could be a great super-middleweight rivalry in the next couple of years.

What's gone on before?

Getty Images

First of all, let's have a quick history lesson on the main event.

Nathan Cleverly and Tony Bellew have previous, having met in the latter's hometown of Liverpool back in 2011. On that occasion, the Welshman took a majority points decision after a thrilling 12-round contest.

That was Bellew's first ever defeat. And it hurt. Hence the bad blood between the two ever since.

Since then, Bellew has won six of his eight fights and his only defeat came in a light-heavyweight world title clash with Adonis Stevenson in Canada.

Cleverly remained unbeaten until losing his world title to Sergey Kovalev in August 2013. He recovered to win his next two fights, which were both at cruiserweight - a division which Bellew now belongs to.

Victory tonight would open the door to another world title shot for either man.

'I can hurt anyone in the world'

Super-middleweight Callum Smith talking to Sky Sports after beating Nikola Sjekloca on points: "My nan passed away last week, she would have been 80 today. Happy birthday nana, I hope you are proud. She was a big fan of the boxing and I'm sure it was what she would have wanted.

"I showed a bit too much respect for his durability. I hurt him with a body shot and proved I can hurt anyone in the world."

Getty Images

Smith moves closer to world title bout

Getty Images

In the last few minutes, unbeaten super-middleweight Callum Smith edged closer to a shot at a world title bout with a comfortable points victory over Montenegro's Nikola Sjekloca in their WBC title eliminator.

The 24-year-old from Liverpool thrilled the home fans in the Echo Arena with his 15th victory from 15 pro fights.

Sjekloca gave Smith the biggest test of his career so far, having lost only two of his previous 29 fights, but was unable to hurt the local favourite.

Coming up

Here's what else is coming your way tonight:

Anthony Joshua v Michael Sprott (10 rounds heavyweight contest)

George Groves v Denis Douglin (12 rounds super-middleweight contest)

James DeGale v Marco Antonio Periban (12 super-middleweight contest)

Scott Quigg v Hidenori Othake (WBA super-bantamweight title)

Get involved #bbcboxing

Right then, there's been plenty of trash talking in the build-up to this fight. We're asking for your favourite verbal boxing put-downs. The clean ones, of course. You can send those, or your predictions for the fight (and reasons why), via #bbcboxing on Twitter, on text to 81111 or you can post to our Facebook and Google+ accounts.

Get stuck in, fight fans.

McDonnell marches on

There's nowt better than a packed night of boxing, is there? Already in Liverpool tonight, Jamie McDonnell has retained his WBA bantamweight title with a 10th-round stoppage win over Javier Chacon - but not before he was given a real fright.

The 28-year-old from Doncaster is now set for a unification clash against WBO champion Tomoki Kameda next year.

The Argentine, Chacon, troubled McDonnell until he was forced out of the fight by a dislocated shoulder.

McDonell told Sky Sports: "My future is going for a big unification fight. I'm going to be on the ball for that fight and bring another belt home to Britain."

When two tribes go to war

Evening everybody. You ready for a big ruck between two sworn enemies? It's Wales against England, Caerphilly versus Liverpool, Nathan Cleverly against Tony Bellew. The trash talking is almost done, meaning it's time to see who really is the king of the cruiserweights on these shores.

Meeting head on

Getty Images

Nathan and Tony just don't get along.

They had a real tear-up in 2011 and Nathan won. But they still can't help themselves.

Tony says Nathan is a fraud. Nathan says Tony need silencing. Every time they meet, they square up. Usually right under the nose of Eddie.

Which brings us to the here and now.

Nathan and Tony are both in Liverpool. They are both about to enter a boxing ring. They are both about to settle this grudge match once and for all.

Seconds out...