Lee Selby lost his IBF world featherweight title after a shock defeat against Josh Warrington at Elland Road in Leeds.

The Barry fighter was beaten in a split decision 116-112 115-113 113-115 after a bruising battle.

Selby was cut above both eyes by accidental head clashed with Warrington who became the first boxer from Leeds to win a world title.

The Yorkshire made a lightning start winning the early rounds and though Selby fought back could not get the verdict according to the judges’ scorecards.

The 31-year-old’s defeat was his first for nine years and only the second loss of his career.

Selby had insisted he would have no problems taking on the Yorkshire outsider at the home of his beloved Leeds United.

But the local hero seemed inspired by the crowd as he took the early rounds and with Selby also suffering the cut eye.

Selby responded in the fourth round as he used his reach advantage to pick off his rival.

But he suffered another cut eye in the sixth forcing referee Michael Alexander to stop the fight before the ringside doctor gave him the all-clear to continue.

The fight went the distance with both men giving their all in the 12th before Warrington was judged the winner.

The new champion said: ”I can’t put it into words, I’ve worked hard over the last 18 weeks and during that time I’ve had two baby girls born. I’m overcome with emotion, it was sheer grit, and the crowd got me through this.

“There were times in that fight when the roar of the crowd kept pushing me forward and gave me that second gear when I needed it.

“Lee is a very good fighter and anyone who has rushed in against him has lost. I out boxed the boxer tonight.”