In his first fight back at lightweight, former two-time IBF junior lightweight world champion Joe Cordina shook off the ring rust with a hard-fought 10-round decision win over heavy-handed Mexican visitor Jaret Gonzalez Quiroz.

Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn hinted at a big future showdown to finish 2025 for the Welshman, who at 33, isn't getting any younger and was making his first appearance under new coach Gary Lockett in Manchester.

The Cardiff contender landed 146 of 498 total punches over 10 rounds, while Quiroz was 83-of-422 on his attempts in a contest more competitive than the judges' scorecards would have you believe.