Lee Selby beats John Simpson to win first title defence

Lee Selby has lost once in 13 fights since turning professional in July 2007

Lee Selby made a successful first defence of his Commonwealth and British featherweight title as he defeated challenger John Simpson on Wednesday.

The Welshman became the first fighter to stop Simpson when Selby knocked him down in round five and the Scot did not beat referee Marcus McDonnell's count.

Selby's victory in London Hall earned him his fourth stoppage in five fights.

"This sends a major message that I'm ready to move on from the domestic level to the European," said Selby.

The Barry boxer, who beat Stephen Smith in September to claim the Commonwealth and British belts, now hopes to secure a shot at the European featherweight title in 2012.