Francesca Hennessy passed the sternest test of her career with authority, outpointing former WBC world champion Fabiana Bytyqi to claim the WBC International Bantamweight title at the Valliant Live in Derby.

Boxing on the BBC for the first time, Hennessy stepped in against the most seasoned opponent she has faced to date. With just six fights on her record compared to Bytyqi’s 25, the bout represented a notable leap in experience. Inside the ring, however, the gap was far less evident.

From the opening bell, Hennessy’s speed and footwork proved decisive. She established control early, working at range and varying her attacks while preventing Bytyqi from settling. The former world champion struggled to close the distance consistently, often left reaching as Hennessy moved in and out with sharp combinations.

It was also Hennessy’s first outing at bantamweight, and she appeared well suited to the division — sharp, balanced and strong enough to maintain her output across the rounds.

By the final bell, the result felt clear. Hennessy was awarded a wide decision to improve her record to 8-0 and add a recognised WBC title to her résumé, moving herself another step closer to contention at world level.