Anthony Crolla beats John Murray in boxing battle of Manchester: Fight increases their reputation in America

Anthony Crolla and John Murray went head-to-head for the WBO inter-continental title in Manchester on Saturday night. Both boxers have a huge reputation, but this fight has helped them find the boxing spotlight in America, but only one man could win, with Anthony Crolla getting the 10th-round stoppage over Murray.

The pair are good friends, and they had been training partners before, so many were expecting a classic fight, and that's exactly what they got. Crolla explained his views on the fight, saying "I prepared for this fight like no other, John put the fear of god into me."

In the last few seconds Crolla launched an array of punches, in a near assault-like fashion, ensuring there would be no way Murray could continue to fight. The pair showed their friendship was still intact, hugging and having a friendly chat afterwards.

The fight was a big hit in the USA, and both boxers will be looking to use this to cash in and get bigger fights than ever before. Their new-found reputation is likely to help. Murray will be looking to improve, and realized this fight was too much for him, saying " gave it my all, I was the best I've been in training and he's beaten me at my best," he said. "I want to take my hat off to Anthony because he was bang on. I don't want to make any excuses, as the rounds went on maybe I began to feel the inactivity but full respect to Anthony, I had a full camp and felt great."

Could the pair have a rematch, if not what's next for this exciting duo?