British lightweight Anthony Crolla has moved closer to a world title opportunity after he recorded a thrilling stoppage-victory over John Murray in Manchester.

Many believed that the encounter between the two Mancunians would quickly turn into a brutal affair, and the bout didn't disappoint in front of a passionate crowd at the Phones4U Arena.

Murray started the fight on the offensive, frequently taking the fight to his opponent with Crolla offering little in reply as he absorbed plenty of punishment from the former world title challenger.

However, as the fight entered the middle rounds, Murray slowly began to fade, allowing Crolla to edge his way back into the contest with the match heading into the eighth.

Crolla was beginning to gain control of the fight and in the 10th, the 27-year-old floored Murray, and although he got back up off the canvas, he was soon backed into a corner by Crolla, forcing the referee to bring a halt to the match.