I don’t know what happens next — Watson

DOWN AND OUT . . . Craig Watson’s British welterweight title hopes come to an end in round five at Oldham Sports Centre.

BOXING:

OLDHAM fighter Craig Watson admitted he is unsure what his future holds after a devastating defeat to Lee Purdy.

In the eagerly-anticipated Hatton Promotions rematch at Oldham Sports Centre, the 28-year-old failed to regain the British welterweight title after being stopped in the fifth round.

Watson was also beaten by Essex scrapper Purdy in the same round back at the Manchester Arena three months ago.

After edging the early exchanges he wobbled in the fourth and survived an eight-count in the fifth, only to be sent crashing down to the canvas again seconds later courtesy of a stunning right to the temple.

Watson admitted his rival deserved to keep his belt, adding: “I don’t know what happens next for me.

“I need a break now, but to be honest I had a break before this fight so I am not sure what is going to happen. I will have to go away and have a think.

“It is a huge disappointment to lose in front of my home fans.”

Watson, who last year joined Ricky Hatton’s stable in Hyde, entered the ring wearing Athletic's new away strip.

He was cheered on by more than 1,000 followers, including most of Athletics first team.

Captain Dean Furman said: “We all feel bad for Craig, he gave it his all and was on top in the early rounds.

“A lot of the lads at our club are not into boxing, but we came down to support Craig and really got caught up in the atmosphere, especially when we saw him wearing our kit.

“That was a nice touch and he made it a fantastic occasion for the town. I am sure he will bounce back.”