Welsh lightweight Gavin Rees has ended his professional career on a high with a thrilling points win over Gary Buckland.

After Buckland edged the first encounter in February, the rematch was anticipated by every domestic fight fan, and while it didn't completely live up to the first fight, it was an enthralling 36 minutes.

Buckland had the better of the opening four rounds, but during the middle part of the contest, Rees began to pick off his opponent as Buckland began to tire.

As the fight entered the closing stages, Rees was enjoying the greater success, and although Buckland continued to show plenty of heart, he was taking too many shots from the 34-year-old.

One judge decided that Buckland was worthy of a 116-113 win, but the other two officials delivered a more realistic verdict of 117-112 and 117-113 to Rees.