Tony Bellew defeats BJ Flores in the third round to remain WBC Cruiserweight world champion

Tony Bellew has defeated BJ Flores to defend his WBC Cruiserweight world champion belt.

The Liverpool-born boxer knocked down his American opponent three times in the second round, before finishing the 37-year-old in the third round.

Watch: Bellew destroy 'Spongebob Squarepants' Haye & go for the heavyweight
Immediately after the fight, the 33-year-old jumped out of the ring to challenge David Haye, who was in attendance at ringside.

Flores didn’t appear able to deal with Bellew, despite an even first round, after the passionate fighter abandoned much of his tactical plan to go for the knockout.
However, even with the impressive fight, the main story may become Bellew calling out Haye in the aftermath.

Tony Bellew defeats BJ Flores in three rounds retain WBC world championship belt
Tony Bellew knocked BJ Flores down three times before winning (Picture: Getty)
The prizefighter jumped out of the ring to challenge Haye afterwards, with his coaching team and stewards having to hold him back.

In his interview after the fight, Bellew said: ‘I’m ruthless when I get going. BJ Flores is an old-school, respected fighter and he’s trying to fulfill a childhood dream. I’ve pummeled him.

Haye hits back at Bellew with outrageous knockout claim

‘I could have been clinical. I’m not called the Bomber for nothing!
‘Understand me – getting home to my wife and kids is all that really matters.’

Tony Bellew was in fine form against BJ Flores (Picture: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)
He added on Haye: ‘You see him? He’s been conning the British public since his pathetic comeback started.

‘The last two guys you fought are working on nightclub doors, or they’re putting the bins out.

‘You see you? You’re gonna get smashed too. With ten ounce gloves on, I’ll put you and your pathetic haircut to sleep.
‘Brother, I’m the biggest payday you’ve got right now.’