Chris Eubank Junior's challenge for Billy Joe Saunders' European, British and Commonwealth belts ended in bitter disappointment.

The unbeaten Brighton middleweight lost a split decision 115-114 (Saunders), 116-113 (Eubank Jr) and 115-113 (Saunders).

The fight lived up to its billing with Saunders in charge early on behind a slick jab before Eubank Jr took a foothold.

A big finish could not swing it his way, though, despite one judge giving him the nod.