Both men took some heavy shots and punishment but most memorably Rozicki took several flush shots that violently snapped his head back in Round 6.

"That's just the kind of fighter I am. I wasn't there to survive, I was there to win," Rozicki (21-2-1, 20 KOs) told The Ring. "He landed some big shots, but I was still trying to push forward and turn the fight around."

Such nature of the fight between both combatants it prompted commentator Joe Tessitore to say: "This fight would make a Rocky movie blush."

"I guess it means people saw the kind of fight we put on," he said. "We both left everything in the ring and gave the fans a memorable fight. That's what boxing is all about."

Billam-Smith emerged victorious when Rozicki wasn't allowed to continue and come out for Round 8.

"I was ready to keep going and do whatever it took," said Rozicki. "My corner saw something I didn't and made the decision. In the moment I wanted another round at the least and felt I still had more to give, but the fight was stopped.

"No crossed words. I wanted to continue, that's just who I am. I always believe I have a chance as long as there's time left on the clock. It wasn't my decision, but that's boxing."

Due to the brutal nature of the battle both men went to the local hospital and where they spent four hours.

During his time at the facility the Canadian received a CT scan and had blood work before everything was cleared and he was discharged.

"We met one another the next morning in the hotel lobby," he said. "He is a tough man, and it was an honor to share the ring with him. I wish him and his team all the best.

Rozicki, who dropped two spots to No. 8 in the latest Ring ratings, met fire with fire and is happy with his performance even if things didn't go his way.

"It was the exact fight I wanted, we went head-to-head every round," he said. "It's the fight I want and I got it.

"It was a proper fight; it's my style and I'm glad the fans enjoyed it. I always want the best fights, and we will see what gets offered next."

Three Lions Promotions' chief Dan Otter concurs with his fighter.

"I think Ryan's stock definitely went up," said Otter. "He is a fan friendly fighter and always up for a good fight. That’s boxing, though, and it didn't go our way on the night.

"Ryan told me after the fight that he's ready to do it all over again. He's cut from a different cloth; I'll tell you that. His heart, toughness and determination are second to none. He will be back and stronger than ever."

"I'm sure Zuffa will be eager to get him back on their platform as soon as the time is right. For now, he needs some well-earned rest and recovery, and I'm confident he'll be back stronger than ever."

Rozicki is taking some well-deserved rest in Bournemouth before visiting Europe with his wife and then returning home where he will slowly begin the next steps of his career.