Paddy Barnes said after the his contest: "I thought I had it because I threw more punches than him.

"Hopefully, he will be retired in four years time. I don't want to see that man again."

Before leaving the ring, Barnes had playfully pretended to strangle his Chinese foe and Zou responded by holding the Irishman's arm aloft.

"Last year, I had one fight in the World Championship and lost. I thought I was going nowhere," added Barnes.

"To go from that to lose to a three-time world champion and Olympic champion on countback. I'm happy."

Well Done 'Team Ireland'