Nicola Adams said she thought she had done enough to win gold at the World Championships in China.

The flyweight – who has now won silver in the last three World Championships – was beaten 14-10 by China’s world number one Ren Cancan in Qinhuangdao.

Adams, who lost to the same fighter two years ago, was made to pay for a sluggish start as Ren scored early to establish a two-point lead at the end of the first round.

Although the former Bradford College student – who trained at Huggy’s gym in Bradford – enjoyed increasing success with right hands, Ren extended her lead throughout.

The 29-year-old flyweight was unhappy with the judges’ verdict, saying : “I thought the scoring was a bit wrong, but that’s boxing for you.

“I believe I won it but didn’t get the decision.”

The Yorkshire fighter is now aiming for revenge at this summer’s London Olympics, having secured her place in the Great Britain squad by reaching the semi-finals.

“This hasn’t dented my confidence. It’s been a great experience and I’ve had an amazing time.

“I’ve qualified for the Olympics and that’s what I came to do. In London, it will be on my own turf so the score will be different then. I’ll be going for gold.”

Savannah Marshall won Britain’s first-ever gold at the championships with a 17-15 win over Elena Vystropova of Azerbaijan – her historic victory coming on her 21st birthday.

Marshall said: “It’s been an amazing week and to come away as world champion and with a place at the Olympics is incredible.”

There were also bronze medals for Natasha Jonas and Lisa Whiteside, while Ireland’s Katie Taylor won her fourth consecutive gold medal in the lightweight division.