Nathaniel Collins' perfect professional record is no more. In a tense, high-stakes rematch at Glasgow's The Hydro, the Scottish featherweight suffered a split-decision defeat to Spain's Cristobal Lorente in their WBC world title eliminator.

The fight was a razor-close sequel to their October draw, with both men going the full 12 rounds once again. While Collins, 29, thrilled the home crowd by sending the southpaw Lorente to the canvas in the sixth, the experienced former European champion showcased veteran composure to recover and control the later rounds.

The judges' scorecards told the story of a fiercely contested battle: 115-112 and 115-112 for Lorente, against a 116-111 card for Collins. With this victory, Lorente (30) secures the mandatory challenger position for the WBC featherweight title, currently held by American Bruce Carrington.

For Collins, who entered the bout with an unblemished 17-0 record, the defeat is a tough setback in a career that had been on a rapid ascent. In boxing, where resilience is as crucial as power, this chapter sets the stage for a compelling comeback story.