The Star Gold Coast, Gold Coast, Australia - Local favourite Demsey McKean 18-0 (12 KOs) had his hands more than full with a determined and dangerous Jonathan Rice 13-5 (9 KOs) from the United States. From the 3rd round on Rice applied solid pressure, but McKean managed to outlast the American veteran in the final round and get a 10th round stoppage with only seconds remaining.

In what was looking like a test-too-tough for McKean up until the last 30 seconds, but the Australian managed to work his way through and secure a well-deserved 10th round stoppage over Jonathan Rice at the Star Gold Coast. It looked at the midway point in the contest that Rice might have McKean's number as he managed to land some jarring shots which had the undefeated prospect in trouble on several occasions.

In the final round both fighters knew the bout was hanging in the balance. McKean dug down deep and pressed the action at the round's end. McKean scored a knockdown in the 10th and when the referee allowed the action to continue, McKean's followed-up with a barrage that had Rice helpless. The bout was stopped with only seconds remaining.

With the victory McKean won the IBF Intercontinental Heavyweight title as well as the WBO Asia-Pacific Heavyweight title. Expect McKean to return stronger and more experienced in his next outing which will have the boxing world watching closely.

Heavy Hitters - Fight Page