Nicky Cook had to overcome a severe cut to defend his European featherweight title for the third time with a points victory over Yuri Voronin in Dagenham.

After appearing in control of the fight throughout, a clash of heads in the eighth round left Cook with a deep cut on his right eyebrow.

Cook was awarded a unanimous points victory, maintaining his 10% professional record in his 26th fight.

"It was not my best performance but it is another win," said Cook.

He admitted he had been seriously concerned by the cut which needed a lengthy inspection by the ringside doctor.

"I was worried I might be stopped," said Cook.

The win keeps Cook, ranked as number one challenger to WBC champion Takashi Koshimoto, on course for a world title shot.

"I am still the number one challenger and I am prepared to fight any of the world champions any time," added Cook.