Caroline Dubois: Briton beats Maira Moneo for WBC interim lightweight title

It was an all-round impressive start from Dubois as she landed hurtful-looking left hooks to the head, stiff right hooks to the body and utilised her superior jab.

Moneo’s only loss in 14 previous bouts was courtesy of a headbutt disqualification, but the 31-year-old struggled to get into any rhythm on Saturday.

Two straight lefts from southpaw Dubois pierced through Moneo’s guard in the fifth round before a sweetly-timed overhand left sent Moneo crashing to the canvas in the following round.

The away fighter jumped back to her feet but the writing was on the wall.

Coach Shane McGuigan encouraged Dubois to look for the stoppage. However, while there were some more flush heavy hits in the final round, Moneo’s grittiness saw her through to the final bell.

Dubois, who also defended her IBO title, is highly rated within the sport but Boxxer have been slightly cautious with her matchmaking, keen not to rush the Londoner.

The shackles now seem to be off, though, with promoter Ben Shalom keen to deliver her a world title shot next and McGuigan predicting Dubois will be an undisputed champion within a year.

Warrington’s Rhiannon Dixon – who faces Terri Harper next month – is the WBO champion and Brazilian Beatriz Ferreira holds the IBF belt.