Nikolai Valuev v Jameel McCline

Nikolai Valuev retained his WBA heavyweight championship on Saturday night, after his challenger Jameel McCline suffered a mid-fight knee injury in Basle.

The American badly hurt his kneecap in round three – and he could not continue.

He was in pain and unable to get to his feet. The ring doctor then decided McCline could not continue, and the challenger was carried out of the ring on a stretcher.

“I am disappointed,” said Valuev.

“The fans had expected a longer fight. I feel sorry for Jameel. I can’t wait long now and will quickly defend my title again.”

McCline went down without any impact from Valuev – but immediately knew the fight was over.

“This is very disappointing,” said the challenger.