Hard punching ex-European Super Middleweight Champion Dean Francis scored a first round TKO against reigning Commonwealth Light Heavyweight titlist Ovill McKenzie last night at the Marriott Hotel, Bristol, England, capping off a Tony Hay promotion.

Challenger Dean Francis entered the ring ahead of the Champion, British based Jamaican Ovill McKenzie and at the start of round one, both boxers tentatively sized each other up. McKenzie was looking for the big shot as the partisan audience chanted "Deano, Deano" in support of their local lad, Francis.

Just seconds later, a perfectly flush left uppercut from Francis sent McKenzie to the canvas. The Londoner showed a lot of heart as he crawled back to his feet and continued boxing. But McKenzie was still looking a little dazed when Francis lands a right, followed up with several shots on target.

McKenzie fell back against the ropes and referee Marcus McDonald steps in to call a halt to the contest after just 1:47 of round one.

Dean Francis wins the contest by TKO and is crowned the new Commonwealth Light Heavyweight Champion, capping off a return to form after so many setbacks.

Afterward, promoter Tony Hay thanked the audience for their support and said "Dean said he would do it, he is dangerous, he is the man; Dean Francis: New Champion of the Commonwealth!"

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