DENZEL BENTLEY reclaimed his British middleweight title by causing significant damage to Brad Pauls’ eye during a thrilling encounter.

The 29-year-old fighter from Battersea knocked down the 31-year-old Newquay competitor in the tenth round, resulting in a burst swelling above his left cheek.

Denzel Bentley lands on Brad Pauls on his way to a famous points victory

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Denzel Bentley lands on Brad Pauls on his way to a famous points victoryCredit: Getty
Pauls was knocked down by Bentley in the 10th round

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Pauls was knocked down by Bentley in the 10th roundCredit: Getty
Bentley poses with the British, EBU European, WBA Continental and WBO International Middleweight belts

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Bentley poses with the British, EBU European, WBA Continental and WBO International Middleweight beltsCredit: Getty

This crucial moment shifted the dynamics of a fiercely fought and exciting match, with the judges concluding with scores of 117-110, 116-111, and 115-112.

Bentley has regained his former Lonsdale belt, though Pauls deserves commendation for an exceptional performance throughout the bout.

Both competitors began the fight tentatively, measuring each other up with tactical jabs, but the action intensified just before the end of the round.

Bentley unleashed a powerful right hand that grazed the champion a few times before landing squarely, prompting him to shield up.

Pauls countered with a series of heavy punches that found their mark just as the bell rang.

However, during the opening of the second round, Pauls overextended, which resulted in a check left-hook and an uppercut to his nose.

The defending champion adapted well, landing several effective punches by the end of the round.

Fans created an electrifying atmosphere, cheering fiercely for both fighters.

Bentley’s jab was relentless in the third round, yet Pauls demonstrated skill and composed defense against the more powerful shots.

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As the fourth round commenced, Pauls exuded confidence, focusing his efforts on Bentley’s well-defined body with jabs and occasionally connecting with a left hook to the head.

The fifth round was a standout for Pauls, where he effectively targeted Bentley’s midsection before transitioning to strikes aimed at the head as Bentley lowered his guard.

Despite Bentley showing resilience, the judges likely leaned in favor of Pauls for that round.

Bentley tightened his defenses in the sixth, yet Pauls continued pushing forward, setting the rhythm and maintaining pressure.

The seventh round highlighted both fighters’ tenacity in offense and defense.

Chants echoed throughout the Wembley arena, with one side chanting “Newquay Bomb” in response to “Too Sharp” from the other.

The eighth and ninth rounds were evenly contested, filled with grit and outstanding quality from both men.

In the tenth round, Pauls was momentarily shaken, and Bentley took advantage by launching a vigorous offensive. Despite this, Pauls showed resilience, smartly countering the barrage.

He regained his composure and landed multiple right punches shortly thereafter.

Pauls gave his all in a fight that swung in round 10

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Pauls gave his all in a fight that swung in round 10Credit: Getty
Champ Pauls was brave as he lost his titles

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Champ Pauls was brave as he lost his titlesCredit: Getty
Bentley grabbed back his British middleweight title

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Bentley grabbed back his British middleweight titleCredit: Getty

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Nevertheless, Bentley landed a few punches that seemed unharmful but resulted in Pauls hitting the canvas and needing a count. As he rose, it became clear that his left eye was injured. Bentley seized the opportunity, launching a barrage of punches until the round concluded.

The immediate swelling indicated a potential broken eye socket, yet Pauls valiantly pressed on into the eleventh round, showcasing his determination in another remarkable showcase of British boxing. Bentley had the upper hand, on the verge of reclaiming his former title.

In the climactic final round, both gladiators executed a last dazzling display, exerting every ounce of effort they had left until the final bell rang.