The Londoner headlined the excellent Ring IV: Night of Champions card in Riyadh against WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez, live on DAZN PPV, and although he gave another valiant performance, Yarde was stopped for the third time in his career.

Benavidez proved too busy and strong as he slowly broke down the challenger and dropped his man on his way to a successful first defence of the belt via a seventh-round TKO.

The American moved to 31-0 (25 KOs) in the process and his opponent had nothing but respect for him following their one-sided battle in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking on Instagram,Yarde said: “I want to say a big thank you to everybody who tuned in to support, especially those that flew out to Saudi to watch it live. Appreciate you all.

"Those that know me know that I’m p-ssed but I’ll be back better, stronger.

"Congrats to Benavidez, serious fighter. I knew what I was getting myself into it, but I thought I could pull it off and shake up the world trying to be great again, he was just the better man tonight. That’s me being honest.

"Congrats to him and to his team. Just letting everybody know I’m good, some people are worried because my nose was bleeding, but I’m good.”

After the fight, Benavidez announced that he is stepping up to cruiserweight to face WBO and WBA champion Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez on May 2 next year.

Watch Whittaker vs. Gavazi with a DAZN subscription

Ben Whittaker makes his Matchroom debut against Benjamin Gavazi exclusively on DAZN. Watch with a subscription, monthly and annual options available.

For more information, pricing and to subscribe, click here.