Kirillovs gives George a real test as the Shamrock fighter makes it seven-straight wins

Bulgarian Olympic bronze medallist George, 29, claimed his seventh-straight pro win as he closed in on a prospective title shot in the new year.

But he was made to work hard by the tricky Kirillovs, 23, who had a record of 11 wins, eight by knockout, 15 defeats and one draw before the fight.

Both were evenly matched in weight, Kirillovs tipping the scales at 10st 1lb, while George was a touch lighter at 10st 8oz.

George made a bright start, looking good with the jab and just failing to land properly with one wild left hook, as the Shamrock fighter looked to mix it up and display his wide range of punches.

The Lutonian caught Kirillovs with a great three-punch combo, but the Latvian seemed unaffected as he made the bell.

Round two saw George hone his powerful jab and a great overhand right seemed to put Kirillovs in trouble.

The bent-over Latvian’s head almost seemed to graze the ground as he desperately tried to dodge George’s shots, losing his gumshield in the process.

George had the greater range and more power in his shots, but his opponent gradually grew into the contest.

The third round saw Kirillovs go on the offensive, but George ducked and dived well as he proved difficult to hit and was almost caught on the counter before the bell.

The Lutonian continued to land the cleaner shots in the fourth, while Kirillovs’ windmilling only found thin air.

But he looked far more lively and dangerous as he impressively won the fifth.

This seemed to wake George up and he did just enough to claim the sixth and secure a comprehensive victory - but one he will learnt a lot from.

To see my live coverage of the fight add me on Twitter @tertiuswood.

For all the reaction and photos pick up a copy of this Wednesday’s News/Gazette.