JAMES ‘Jazza’ Dickens boxed his way home to a well-deserved 10-round decision over Zelfa Barrett in Manchester. Southpaws have been Barrett’s career kryptonite and 33-year-old underdog Dickens was a worthy winner by scores of 97-93 (twice) and 96-94.

Dickens landed a couple of sneaky shots towards the end of a tentative opening round as Barrett tried to get his strong left jab motoring. Making his third appearance in the super-featherweight, Dickens found a nice early rhythm.

Barrett was left in a fluster towards the end of the fourth round as Dickens jumped in to take advantage of a feet tangle. Referee Michael Alexander ensured both men went to their respective corners instead of engaging in post-round chatter.

Despite being the bigger man, fight favourite Barrett was unable to utilise his advantages as Dickens stepped in and out with repeated success. The more Barrett needed to win rounds, the more Dickens stepped off and picked away with counterpunches. He boxed perfectly from start to finish, showing every ounce of experience.

The Liverpool man picked up Barrett’s WBA International super-featherweight title, improving to 35-5 (14 KOs), while Zelfa Barrett dropped to 31-3 (17 KOs).