Nathan Cleverly: 'I'll push for big fights in 2013'

Nathan Cleverly celebrates defeating Robin Krasniqi during the WBO World Light-Heavyweight Championship title fight at Wembley Arena, London Credit: Nick Potts/PA Wire

Welsh fighter Nathan Cleverly says he's looking to make his mark in 2013 with bigger fights after retaining his belt for the fifth time last night.

The 26-year-old successfully defended his WBO World Light-Heavyweight Championship title against Germany's Robin Krasniqi at Wembley Arena.

Cleverly, who is from Caerphilly, emerged victorious last night following a landslide points decision against the tough but limited mandatory challenger - winning every round on two scorecards and all but one on the third.

Despite the 120-108 119-109 120-108 decision, Cleverly added afterwards: "Maybe I was a little bit rusty. There were times when my lungs felt a little bit heavy.

"It's been a good few months since I was in the ring, so maybe that was a factor."

Cleverly had previously said he would 'make Krasniqi pay on fight night' after his rival dubbed him the 'Princess of Boxing' in response to previous postponements of their showdown.

At a press conference in London, Krasniqi gave Cleverly a skirt emblazoned with the 'Princess' title.

The Welsh fighter had refused to rise to the bait, saying: "It was a bit of bravado and he was trying to get under my skin, but I didn't fall into his trap... I just kept smiling. It's welcome in boxing, that kind of thing - we all like a bit of fun."