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Khan next in line for Bradley after disputed win

Timothy Bradley showed his power against Devon Alexander, but needed a touch of fortune to take the victory © PA Photos

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Timothy Bradley set up a probable fight with Amir Khan after he beat Devon Alexander on a technical decision to unify the WBO and WBC light-welterweight titles.

Despite high hopes for an enthralling contest beforehand, neither fighter really found their rhythm at the Silverdome in Michigan on Saturday night. In the end an accidental headbutt that left Alexander with a deep cut above the eye forced the termination of the fight in the 10th round, with Bradley leading the judges' scorecards 98-93, 97-93, 96-95.

After cancelling each other out in the early stages, WBO champion Bradley eventually began making headway with some punishing right hands. And when an accidental clash of heads opened up a cut above the eyelid for Alexander, the American continued to press home his advantage.

Alexander did rally as the bout wore on, showing some signs of a recovery with a few quick jabs, but another clash of heads in the 10th round reopened the wound and saw doctors bring the fight to a premature conclusion.

A triumphant Bradley confirmed afterwards that he now expects to agree a deal to fight Khan, with Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao potential clashes further down the line.

"Khan is probably number one on the list," Bradley said. "I would love a chance with Floyd Mayweather. I think I've got to take Amir Khan out next, then there will be no doubt who the best 140-pounder is in the world. The key name on the list down the road is Manny Pacquiao."

His vanquished opponent might have something to say about that, however. Aggravated by the manner of his eventual defeat, Alexander revealed afterwards that he hopes to force a rematch to avenge the first loss of his professional career.

"I couldn't see after the headbutt," said Alexander. "He's got a big head, he came at me full force. My eye was burning, I couldn't see.

"There's a rematch clause in the contract, and I want a rematch with Timothy Bradley."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.