Anthony Cacace celebrated emphatically after securing a ninth-round stoppage victory over Leigh Wood, adding another notable win to his record.
The 36-year-old fighters met in a super-featherweight contest held at Wood`s home arena in Nottingham.
However, the powerful fighter from Belfast overpowered his experienced opponent just before the final championship rounds.
He marked the lucrative victory by posing in the ring with his team, promoter Frank Warren, and celebrating with large cigars.
Wood, a local favourite, started quickly with his jab, connecting with Cacace`s head and body.
But the Northern Irishman was sharp and aggressive, landing sharp right hands whenever Wood closed the distance.
Cacace found his rhythm in the second round and began landing his left hooks effectively.
Just before the end of the round, Wood evaded an attack and appeared to land a clean left hook on his opponent.
Wood`s crisp double jabs in the third round prompted the switch-hitter Cacace to adopt a southpaw stance temporarily.
The fight was closely contested until Cacace took control in the ninth round, significantly increasing the pressure.
A left hook dislodged Wood`s balance and proved decisive.
His trainer, Ben Davison, wisely threw in the towel to protect his fighter, prompting enthusiastic celebrations back in Cacace`s hometown.
The former world champion, who gave up his previous title to fight Wood, stated: “I took this fight purely for the money.”
“It paid double what defending my old world title belt would have.”
“I am 36 now, so `Show me the Money!`”
“I would love a homecoming fight in Belfast, but right now it`s my time to keep moving forward.”
Wood was gracious in defeat, telling reporters afterwards: “I don`t want to make any excuses, I promised I wouldn`t.”
“It was hard tonight, maybe harder than usual, perhaps due to the lay-off, I don`t know. He`s a really good fighter, and I hope he continues with success.”
Oliver Croft