Danny Williams was probably the luckiest man in Dagenham on Friday night, writes Ziad Chaudry.

A ludicrous decision from the ringside judges saw the 35-year-old Brixton Bomber retain his British heavyweight title over Horden's Big Bad John McDermott in controversial circumstances.

It seemed very much that Williams was set to lose his converted Lonsdale belt when he was docked three points during this pulsating twelve round encounter.

But both boxers and the crowd at Goresbrook Leisure Centre were left absolutely stunned after Williams got the decision, 114-113, 114-111 and 113-113.

Williams, who is set to meet Nigeria's WBC world champion Peter Samuel, was relieved at the decision but criticised referee Dave Parris for his points deductions. "This is the same referee that robbed me against Michael Sprott when I completely outboxed him. He took away three points ridiculously," said an angry Williams.

"I forced the fight all the way. I know John is a very good fighter. John boxed out of his skin against me because this was his world title fight."

"I still think I've got it. Life is all about motivation. This was a come down for me. I think I've got to vacate and let people like John take over."