Katie Taylor suffers first loss as Chantelle Cameron takes split decision

Chantelle Cameron sensationally ended Katie Taylor's unbeaten and unblemished professional record as she edged a remarkable encounter at the 3Arena.

The Liverpool fighter, who was defending her undisputed super lightweight world title, spoiled Taylor's homecoming with a brave display of front-foot fighting that was ultimately rewarded by two of the three judges.

Too close to call at times throughout this mesmerising encounter on the banks of the River Liffey, and while one judge deemed it a 95-95 draw, two more favoured the away fighter scoring the contest 96-94 victory in the champion’s favour.

Fighting as a professional for the first time on Irish soil, Taylor was roared into the ring by her fervent supporters, the main event that following a night of top class boxing in the capital.

Then from the opening bell, and as expected, champion Cameron came out with real intent, walking into the middle of the ring and remaining on the front foot hunting down the home fighter.

Taylor, though, was happy to work on the outside and certainly landed the bigger punches with two very noticeable rights inside the opening two minutes in what was a very close opening round.

Cameron kept the foot on the gas at the start of the second, walking through Taylor's defence in an attempt to land. Momentarily pinned against the ropes, Taylor used her quick hands and fine movement to ensure that she moved away from the danger.

The tempo remained at an electric pace as Cameron charged through the opening moments of the third, however, Taylor met her head on, and a brawling encounter led to a flurry of punches from both fighters, while Taylor would land some fine combination work later in the round.

Following three tough and tight opening rounds, Cameron