Kell Brook admitted that tough American Carson Jones gained his respect in the aftermath of bruising war of attrition.
Brook earned a close decision victory in Sheffield on Saturday but was pushed all the way by Jones in a thriller.
Brook told Sky Sports News in the post-fight interview: "I needed to dig in there, it was a hard twelve rounds and he earned my respect.
"I think my nose is broken, it was a gallant effort from Jones. We need to step it up now, I'm going to get top men involved so I come back stronger and keep going for a whole 12 rounds."
Brook's promoter Eddie Hearn said Brook will now push for a world title shot or take a final IBF eliminator against Hector Saldivia.