Bloodied But Unbowed, Lee Selby Insists The World Can Be His Again

Lee Selby insists he can become world champion again despite problems suffered when he moved up two weight divisions for the first time at the weekend.

The former world featherweight champion had to overcome cuts above both eyes before outpointing Omar Douglas in his first bout at lightweight at the O2 Arena on Saturday night.

The Barry fighter’s face was covered in blood for most of the fight, but he displayed his superior skills over the closing rounds to complete a unanimous decision victory over the American with scores of 116-112, 116-112 and 115-114.

Selby has moved up two weight divisions after losing his IBF featherweight belt in a May points defeat to Josh Warrington, but has staked his claim for a major bout against his new rivals at 135lbs.

“I believe I can win another world title,” said Selby. “He was supposed to be a big puncher and I held his shots well.

“I have a lot to learn, have great trainer and I just want to fight anybody. If they said I was fighting Anthony Joshua tomorrow I wouldn’t tell them no.”

When he was rushing in he was dangerous with the head,” added Selby. “I have two highly experienced cuts men in the corner but in the fight I kept undoing their work. I am a former world champion and I’m still learning.”

Selby’s record is now improved to 27 wins from 29 contests, but this comeback – although victorious – will do little to remove some doubts he is suited to the lightweight division.

A move back down a category to super featherweight may yet prove his wisest move as the 32-year-old searches for another tilt at title glory.