Nelson looks for positives

Jones (left) consistently outhustled Nelson

Johnny Nelson believes there is a bright side to his poor performance against Panama's Guillermo Jones in Sheffield on Saturday.

McKinley fumes at Nelson decision

The WBO cruiserweight champion retained his title after being awarded a draw despite ringside opinion suggesting he should have left the arena empty-handed.

Nelson, 35, was outworked for the majority of the contest and the judges' decision was booed by his own hometown support.

Hopefully the other champions out there will watch this fight and now fancy taking me on a bit more

Johnny Nelson

But Nelson, no stranger to criticism during a long and arduous career, believes his poor showing can bring him the big fights he has craved for years.

"Hopefully the other champions out there will watch this fight and now fancy taking me on a bit more," said Nelson.

"I've been chasing them all for long enough without any success, but maybe they won't be too scared to fight me after Saturday night's display.

"He was a busy fighter, busier than me, but he wasn't landing as many punches as you thought. If we met again I'm certain I'd knock him out."

Nelson's stable-mate Junior Witter sent out a warning to Manchester's WBU light welterweight champion Ricky Hatton with a speedy demolition of Giuseppe Lauri.

Witter eyes title shot

Hatton had taken five rounds to beat the Italian just over two years ago, but Witter was far more impressive in doing the job well inside two.

"I was just too big and too strong and had too much power and accuracy - I'm the total package," said Witter.

"Now I want to get it on with Ricky in January or February next year. He ducked me for long enough and it's time to put up or shut up."