I had Macklin winning 115-113 due to his incredible work-rate throughout the first seven rounds, of which I gave him six. After that his pace understandably slowed down and Sturm came on strong with increased moments of quality but I felt Macklin had done enough after a good ninth round. The final bell certainly came at the right time for Macklin who had put so much into the fight.

It's unbeliveable how two judges only gave him four rounds in the fight, but yet depressingly believable given the location. Given those scorecards I think it's fair to say that Macklin didn't stand a chance without the stoppage. He was never going to completely dominate Sturm for the full twelve rounds, which he seemingly required for a decision.

At least Macklin is receiving plenty of praise for his efforts and his worldwide reputation is today enhanced despite the loss. In an ideal world I would like to see an immediate rematch but I would advise him against going back to Germany. He would need a stoppage, unlikely as Sturm looked very durable and took Macklin's pressure without wilting. No doubt Sturm would reject a rematch at a neutral venue, so I hope Macklin looks for a different route to the top, with perhaps a rematch down the line.

Cracking fight, best I've seen so far this year. Shame about the outcome.