Ryan Garner achieved a childhood dream in his hometown of Southampton with a dominant win over Michael Magnesi in an action-packed fight to claim the WBC “interim” super-featherweight title.

The 28-year-old was the aggressor in the early stages at St Mary’s Stadium and came out on top in a number of brutal close-quarter exchanges.

After 12 rounds of action, all three judges scored the fight in favour of ‘The Piranha’ – 116-112, 118-110 and 119-109.

In holding the “interim” belt, Garner is now the number one contender to fight O’Shaquie Foster who holds the full WBC title in the division.

“If it wasn’t for the football club, the Saints fans and Frank Warren then none of this would be happening,” Garner told DAZN after the fight.

“It was hard work tonight, [Magnesi] doesn’t stop, he’s an absolute machine and I had to dig deep there at times.

“I can’t thank everyone enough for coming out to support me today, this wouldn’t be possible without this amazing support.

“I want the biggest and best fights next, I want to earn as much money as I can for my family, but I’m so grateful to fight here – look at this crowd and atmosphere, Southampton’s the place to be.”

Garner made his way to the ring inside St Mary’s to a chorus of Seven Nation Army by the White Stripes, with more than 10,000 supporters roaring him on his way.

As his name was announced prior to the bout, Garner sported a stern look on his face, shadow boxing before raising his arm to salute the St Mary’s faithful.

Garner was on the front foot through the early rounds, stalking Italy’s Magnesi down as he applied early pressure.

The contest was fought at a high tempo – with both men happy to trade shots at close quarters.