Nav Mansouri's IBF title challenge ends in narrow defeat

Both fighters had strong spells in a good contest in Malaga and some ringside observers believed Mansouri had done enough to get the decision.

Fortea prevailed, inflicting only the second pro loss of Mansouri’s career.

The 29-year-old super-welterweight will fight on and hinted afterwards he may turn his attentions back to the British title. Injury scuppered his challenge for the belt three years ago.

“It’s a booming division,” he said. “I've learnt a lot from this camp and I am prepared to take on any fight with both hands.”