Bradley Smith’s professional career began with a victory and an apology.

The St Ives puncher claimed a debut success when overcoming Bulgarian opponent Ivaylo Boyanov on points at the York Hall in London on Saturday.

Smith dominated despite suffering a nasty cut in the opening round from what he described as a ‘massive head-butt’ and which later required several stitches.

The 18 year-old said: “I’m just pleased to get my first fight out of the way . . . and to get a first ‘W’ on my record.

“I was in control of the fight and hit him with everything I had, but he just wouldn’t go over.

“He was a tough and durable opponent though and my management apologised afterwards for putting me in a fight like that for my first outing.

“Boyanov was much better than his record suggested he might be and I don’t want to be in too many bouts like that too soon.”

Smith came closest to downing Boyanov with a thunderous uppercut late in the final round, but the bell came to the Bulgarian’s rescue as he was rocked against the ropes.

Smith won every round on the judges’ scorecards and is now likely to return to the ring at the same venue in October.

He added: “I’ve got a long road ahead of me, but the journey is now under way and it was great to have so much great backing.

“There were 115 people down in London to support me and they gave me a brilliant reception.

“It really helped because I was a lot more nervous than I ever got in the amateur ranks.

“There was a lot at stake as I knew I couldn’t afford to slip up.”