By Elliot Foster

Tom Farrell has insisted that there is no need for concern after his first professional defeat.

The WBA International super-lightweight champion succumbed his crown to Ohara Davies at the ECHO Arena in Liverpool on Saturday, exclusively live on Sky Sports.

Farrell, who was previously unbeaten, was floored five times in a valiantly brave display, as part of the undercard to Paul Butler’s victory against Stuart Hall.

Davies was clinical at all times ahead of the stoppage, which was comprehensive, in the sixth round.

But it was remarkable that ‘Fazza’ was still in there punching at that stage after a torrid opening two rounds against the Londoner, who possessed chilling power.

A left hook caught the 27-year-old, who is now 13-1 (3 KOs), flush in the opening round, with the bell saving him from potentially failing to see through the first three minutes.

And it was only Farrell’s own heart, bravery and determination which carried him through the second.

He was down again early in the round from a right, then appeared to take a blow on the back of the head as he greeted the canvas a third time.

The fourth round was arguably Farrell’s best and he managed to get through that and the fifth stanza, but the sixth round saw an end brought to proceedings.

Another fearsome blow from Hackney’s ‘Two Tanks’ sent Farrell down for a fourth time.

To his credit, he rose, but the fight should really have ended there. It didn’t.

Much dismay was then aimed at referee Steve Gray as the outgoing champion was forced to take one final and most unnecessary shot which ultimately did make the third man –– and Farrell’s corner team –– think twice and call a halt to the fight.

Afterwards, Farrell was taken to hospital for a routine check-up and took to social media to reassure supporters that all was okay.

“[I have] just got home from a routine check at hospital,” he wrote in the early hours of Sunday.

“I can't thank everyone enough for the messages of support, it means a lot. I will be back.”

He then added that “all [was] cool” during the checks and that there were “no problems”.

To much surprise, Farrell was the subject of some respectful words from conqueror Davies.

"He had such a heart and I have to respect him for that,” he said. “He still fought on like the champion he is. He is still a champion in my eyes."

Promoter Eddie Hearn, who looks after Davies, is keen to get his man out again sooner rather than later, with further details expected to be revealed in due course.