THERE was no happy ending for old romantic, Matthew Ellis, in his big fight with Audley Harrison on Saturday.

The leading Blackpool heavyweight lost in the second round at Bethnal Green's famous York Hall, despite making a blistering start which left the Olympic champion reeling.

To make matters worse, the climax of the fight was dominated by a rumpus outside the ring involving former British champion, Herbie Hide.

Ellis told national newspapers that he planned to celebrate victory in the fight by proposing to his partner, Mandy Teale, in the ring -- and asking Harrison to be best man. He looked to be well on his way to victory in the first 30 seconds, coming out fighting and leaving the unbeaten Olympian shaken. Observers said Ellis - once tipped as a potential British champion -- had won the first round.

But, Although nobody knew it at the time, Ellis had pulled a tendon in his shoulder.

Harrison's punching power proved too much and, after being knocked down three times, Ellis was saved from further punishment by the referee.

Boxing authorities are planning an investigation into the scenes after the fight, including the behaviour of Hide, who was summarising for the BBC.

The trouble flared as Harrison asked the crowd who he should fight next -- Hide or boxing legend, Frank Bruno, also present as he prepares for a possible comeback.