David Adeleye climbed off the canvas to produce an inspired half-minute during a frantic round eight, but the former British champion was unable to turn the tide against world-level contender
Filip Hrgovic and later proved firmly second best during their 10-round encounter.
98-91 and two 99-90 scorecards saw
The Ring's No. 6-rated heavyweight contender produce a second consecutive decision victory over British opposition, though it was far from straightforward as he endured another grisly cut - this time as early as the second round - with Adeleye's punch power doing plenty to keep the Croatian honest in their exchanges.
Hrgovic outlanded Adeleye 228-92 on total punches across all ten rounds, including more than three times as many power shots (169-47) connected over their half-hour encounter.