Luke Keeler fought bravely before seeing his world title dreams put on hold by WBO champion Demetrius Andrade in Miami.

Dublin’s ‘Cool Hand’ rose from two early knockdowns to force his way into the fight through the middle rounds but was eventually halted on his feet in the ninth round by America’s unbeaten ‘Boo Boo.’

Keeler said afterwards: “It wasn’t my night. I gave it my best shot and it wasn’t enough. Fair play to Demetrius – he’s a great champion.

“It’s been a great experience. If I didn’t think I could improve, I would retire but I’m getting better with each camp under my friend and coach Pete Taylor so I’ll go again.

“I’d like to thank my team for looking after me these past few days and also DAZN, Eddie Hearn and MTK Global for giving me this amazing experience of a first world title shot.

“I’m a determined f--ker and I will get back up there. Thanks to everyone for the kind messages and support. It’s been heart-warming. Huge thanks to my family and everyone who travelled over – I’ll be forever grateful.”

On the undercard, Keeler’s MTK Global team-mate Avril Mathie seized her opportunity by blasting to 5-0, 3 KOs with a fourth-round stoppage of Angelina Hoffschneider.