Dean Francis' hopes of a spectacular return to the ring after a seven-month lay off failed to materialise in Swindon last night.

His eight-round clash with London-based Ugandan Joey Vegas ended in a draw.

Francis, 36, had only been in the gym for three weeks ahead of the fight, and Vegas firmly tested the adopted Bristolian's jaw.

The reigning British light-heavyweight champion would have to shed almost two stones to defend his title, and gave a strong hint that his mind is now focussed on the cruiserweight division.

Francis said: "Getting down to light heavy takes away my power and I feel happier moving up.

"Enzo Maccarinelli still remains in my sights, but a few fights are needed before we get together in the ring."

Nathan Cleverley needed less than a round to defend his Commonwealth light heavyweight title against Kenyan Samson Onyango.

Swindon's Jamie Cox remains on target for a British welterweight title challenge after demolishing Jason Rushton inside a round.

Bristol's Dan Stewart claimed a points win over London southpaw Johnny Greaves in their light-welterweight clash.

Swindon heavyweight Ben Harding had a convincing points win over Howard Daley, Bristol light welterweight Adam Cummings drew with Birmingham veteran Karl Taylor, Lydney lightweight Chris Higgs won a points decision over Sid Razak, and

Swindon super middleweight Marlon Reid halted Sherman Alleyne.