Scragg beaten in world title fight

Lyndsey Scragg's hopes of becoming the first world champion from Wolverhampton were dashed in Canada last night.

The city's first female professional boxer lost her shot at the Womens WBC World Superfeatherweight title against Jelena Mrdjenovich in a points decision, in the champion's back yard of Edmonton.

Scragg, the underdog coming into the fight, took the fight to her opponent and can be considered unlucky to lose, although she was knocked down twice.

She was dropped at the end of the first round, after dominating, but sprang back to her feet. The second knockdown was more dubious, the referee beginning the count with Scragg in the ropes and not off her feet.

The challenger is understandably disconsolate after losing her unbeaten record after eight fights, but trainer Errol Johnson insists she can leave Canada with her head held high.

He said: "There was not much in it at all and it could just as easily have been Lyndsey crowned champion. She was unbelievable. If there was any doubt she is a world class female boxer, there is none now.

"She is worthy of a world title and I am confident she will be back."