Froch stops Mack, retains super middleweight title

NOTTINGHAM, England (AP) -- Britain's Carl Froch stopped American Yusaf Mack in the third round Saturday night to retain the IBF super middleweight title.

Mack keeled over after being struck with a right-left combination into his ribs from Froch, with the one-sided fight ending with 28 seconds left in the round.

Froch, fighting in his hometown of Nottingham, sent his opponent to the canvas in the first round, too, after connecting with a left hook and then a straight right, leaving Mack breathing heavily in his corner.

"When I am in there on fire like I was tonight, I think I am unbeatable, I really do," the 35-year-old Froch said. "I was a bit cautious early on but then I found my range."

It was Froch's 30th win in 32 fights and he is set for a rematch next with Canada's Lucien Bute. Froch beat Bute in May to claim the title for the third time. Mack has lost five times in 38 fights.

"I think I am a level above Mack," Froch said, "but anyone can give you a fight if you are not on your A game."