Isaac Dogboe defeated Joet Gonzalez in a split decision victory on Saturday night to win a WBO eliminator.
The Ghanaian-born Briton also took home the WBO international belt, and is on course to challenge for the full featherweight title.
Dogboe and Gonzalez both went at it hard as they offered up plenty of blows and also took the same.
In the 10th and final round Dogboe heeded the advice from his trainer Barry Hunter to leave it all in the ring, which earned him the nod from two judges. The fight was scored 96-94, 96-94, 94-96.
“I’ve always seen Barry as a very inspirational person, a father figure,” he said after the fight, reported Sky Sports.
“He’s a person that when it seems like it’s all gone, he always has something to say to you. I really needed him in my corner. He was able to pull that extra strength in me out.”
Dogboe celebrated his victory and then turned his attention to the division’s champions, including Josh Warrington.
“My journey could be a Hollywood blockbuster movie,” Dogboe said.
“It doesn’t matter what fight you’re in. Regardless of wherever there is darkness, keep on going through it. Because at the end of the day you will surely see the light at the end of the tunnel.
“I want to say thanks to Joet Gonzalez. He’s a true warrior.
“Whoever the champions are, they should watch out. The ‘Royal Storm,’ I am back, baby!”
