By Elliot Foster
Tyson Fury returned to the ring after more than two years out with an underwhelming win.
The 29-year-old former undisputed heavyweight world champion took out Sefer Seferi on Saturday.
Fury, who tipped the scales at 19st 10lbs and 2oz despite having shifted a remarkable eight stone ahead of his comeback, saw the Swiss-based Macedonian, 39, retire after four completed rounds at Manchester Arena.
In his first fight under new trainer Ben Davison, Fury danced his way to the ring and spent the opening two rounds posturing, with little action in the ring, exclusively live on BT Sport.
Seferi, who was picked up by Fury following their weigh-in on Friday and who came in at a slender 15st 2oz, saw his camp bring an end to the bout as some fans threw objects from the stands.
The fight was something of an anti-climax, despite having former footballer Paul Gascoigne and chef Gordon Ramsay in attendance at ringside.
But stiffer tests await for Fury, who is understood to already have a new fight date.
"I'll be better next time. I'll have more rounds and fight a better opponent," said Fury in the aftermath. "I learned two-and-a-half years is a long time to be out. I'll take my career very seriously this time and enjoy every moment."
The promoter of Fury, Frank Warren, who was delighted with his man’s win, confirmed that the self-styled Gypsy King will be back in action again in the summer.
Fury will fight on August 18, exclusively live on BT Sport, at Windsor Park in Belfast, as part of the supporting cast to Carl Frampton’s return.
Further details regarding that card will come in due course.