Ebanie Bridges slams critics after beating Mariá Cecilia Román to claim IBF bantamweight world title

Sydney-born Ebanie Bridges has beaten Argentine Mariá Cecilia Román to claim the IBF bantamweight world title in front of 12,000 fans in Leeds.

The judges unanimously awarded the 10-round contest to Bridges, 100-91, 97-93 and 97-93.

The 35-year-old former bodybuilder, who is a controversial figure in women's boxing for her tendency to weigh in wearing lingerie, moved to an 8-1 record and claimed her first world title at just the second attempt.

«Firstly, can I just say, can I f***ing fight or what?» Bridges said.

«F*** you guys who think I can't fight, because I can f***ing fight.

»I can box, I can fight and I can look hot on the scales."

Fighting in the co-main event ahead of Josh Warrington's featherweight world title rematch with Kiko Martinez, Bridges enjoyed the support of the vast majority of the crowd.

She showed a marked improvement from her first world title attempt, a unanimous defeat to Shannon Courtenay in March last year.

Her improved jab and light footwork owe much to her association with famed British trainer, Mark Tibbs.

The Blonde Bomber came out firing in the early rounds, working Román's body with solid left hooks followed up with powerful head shots.

«I love that kind of fight,» Bridges said of the toe-to-toe battle that ensued, enrapturing the crowd.

«They're the fights that, I know they're not the fights you're supposed to really have, but I love those kind of fights. They're entertaining for the fans.

Bridges continued to work the 39-year-old in close throughout the middle rounds, but Román, a veteran of 21 professional fights and fighting in her seventh title defence, worked her way into the contest during the latter stages.

The Australian visibly tired and slowed towards the end of the fight, allowing Román