Price shines

Price began confidently, working fluently and landing the better combinations in round one.

Dallas, a late replacement for John McDermott, threatened when close, but was for the most part second best.

And late in the second round it was Price’s power which told, with a thumping right hand which caught Dallas flush on the jaw.

There was no celebration from the Beijing bronze medallist at having knocked out Dallas, who is a friend and stable-mate.

Price improves his record to 11 wins and no defeats in the heavyweight division, while Dallas slipped to 15 wins and a first loss.

“It took real guts for Tom Dallas to step in on short notice,” Price said afterwards, “but I think I made a statement.”

Earlier in the evening Chris Edwards shocked namesake Paul Edwards to win the British flyweight title.

Veteran Chris won a split decision after twelve close rounds, winning 115-114 and 115-113 on two judges’ scorecards, while the third scored it 115-114 the way of 24-year-old Paul.

Paul Edwards began the stronger, but the experience and stamina of Chris Edwards showed in the later rounds as the pair traded punches from close range.

Chris Edwards now holds a record of 16 wins and 14 defeats, while previously unbeaten Paul Edwards now has a loss to go with his eight victories.