STEPHEN Ormond feels the shots he landed in his Celtic title fight with Paul Appleby played a part in John Simpson’s stoppage win over the Scot.

‘The Rock’ came short of smashing Appleby when the pair meet earlier in the year but done more than enough to win the fight. He didn’t get the result his display deserved however, but claimed the effects of the punishment he inflicted on the former British champion took its toll against Simpson.

Appleby was halted in the sixth by the fighter, who took the British crown off Martin Lindsay in 2010 and Ormond all but claimed an assist.

“It was a good win by John and fair play to him. I think Paul was blowing from round one. He looked tired and I think the fight we had might have taken his toll on him. He has been in some wars and we had a good battle. I think it was the case of  two tough fights in a row caught up on him. He is a good fighter but he has been in some wars.” Ormond, who defeated Mickey Coveney on Thursday explained.