Fight fans were treated to a glimpse of the special atmosphere that awaits on Saturday night with Nottingham’s Albert Hall rocking at tonight’s Weigh-In between arch-rivals Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington.

The former World Champions face each other in long-awaited rematch this weekend – live worldwide on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN – as part of a brilliant card featuring the British & Commonwealth Super Welterweight Title clash between Ishamel Davis and Bilal Fawaz, Sandy Ryan fighting Karla Ramos Zamora for the WBC World Super Lightweight Championship, plus the return of popular Heavyweight Dave Allen, young superstars Leo Atang and Tiah-Mai Ayton, along with former MMA icon Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann.

The hometown hero Wood was soaking up the love from his fervent support this evening – vowing to deliver a repeat performance of his October 2023 victory.

“I’ll be doing it quicker [this time]. That’s the main and important thing,” said Wood.

“I’ve got to win – and I’ve got to win quicker. If he [Josh] comes out quick and comes for me, it is going to end very, very quick. I promise you that.

“Thank you to everyone who has come down for this. I will see you all tomorrow night. It’s going to be electric and these fans are all going to be part of the win.”

But Leeds’ revved up Warrington revealed he is ready to silence the boo boys at the 8,000-sold out Motorpoint Arena and “roll back the years” to avenge his previous loss to Wood.

“I’m right up for this one,” said Warrington, speaking to DAZN’s lead Boxing commentator, Adam Smith.

“The determination, the focus. It’s all there. I have rolled back the years for this one.

“I don’t want to give too much away, but you’ll see on Saturday night. Whatever he [Leigh Wood] is going to bring, I’ve got a plan for it. There’s a lot up the sleeves of Josh Warrington this time, that is for sure.

“Leigh Wood has had a brilliant career, but The Leeds Warrior is here and will be walking away with a victory. Revenge is sweet. For the travelling fans coming down, Saturday night is going to be absolutely epic.”

PRELIMS – Live on DAZN from 5.15pm
Joe Howarth (150.7lbs) vs Dan Booth (160.1lbs)
Super Welterweight Contest
4 x 3-minute rounds

Molly McCann (122.9lbs) vs Beata Dudek (122.7lbs)
Super Bantamweight Contest
6 x 2-minite rounds

Tiah-Mai Ayton (122.8lbs)  vs Catherine Tacone Ramos (119.8lbs)
Super Bantamweight Contest
8 x 2-minute rounds

MAIN CARD – Live on DAZN from 7pm

Leo Atang (235.9lbs) vs Dan Garber (225.1lbs)
Heavyweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Sandy Ryan (139.5lbs) vs Karla Ramos Zamora (139.3lbs)
WBC World Super Lightweight Championship
10 x 2-minute rounds

Dave Allen (271.1lbs) vs Karim Berredjem (243.8lbs)
Heavyweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Ishmael Davis (153.5lbs) vs Bilal Fawaz (153.9lbs)
British Super Welterweight Championship
12 x 3-minute rounds

Leigh Wood (129.8lbs) vs Josh Warrington (129.7lbs)
Super Featherweight Contest
12 x 3-minute rounds

It was the calm before the inevitable storm this Saturday in front of a capacity crowd at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena this Saturday, as arch-rivals Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington stood toe-to-toe at today’s Press Conference.

The former World Champions face each other in long-awaited rematch this weekend – live worldwide on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN – has part of a brilliant card featuring the British & Commonwealth Super Welterweight Title clash between Ishamel Davis and Bilal Fawaz, Sandy Ryan fighting Karla Ramos Zamora for the WBC World Super Lightweight Championship plus the return of popular Heavyweight Dave Allen, young superstars Leo Atang and Tiah-Mai Ayton, along with former MMA icon Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann.

Here’s what the fighters had to say ahead of Saturday night – with selected quotes and the video from today’s Press Conference, below.

MATCHROOM SPORT CHAIRMAN, EDDIE HEARN
It’s great to be here in Nottingham, a fight city which has given us so many incredible fights over the years. And on Saturday night, we have it all over again with a sold out arena ready to witness what is really one of the great British domestic grudge matches. It’s the ‘Last Man Standing’ between Nottingham’s very own Leigh Wood and, of course, Leeds’ Josh Warrington. I want to thank both men, not just for agreeing to be a part of this massive event, but for everything you have done for British boxing. Onb Wednesday, you would have seen that Matchroom has secured a huge, five-year extension. It’s a massive moment for our fighters and a massive moment for sports fans in general. And over the next two weeks we have two huge events – and these fights are our bread and butter. These kind of events are what made Matchroom great in the sport of boxing. These kind of events are what made me fall in love with the sport. These kind of events are what invigorate the boxing scene and show everyone just how great this sport can be. Next week, we will have over 10,000 in Arizona for Navrette-Nunez, the big Unification match-up to see who really is the next King of Mexico. This weekend, in Nottingham, over 8,000 – these events are what we live and breathe for. Josh Warringtron will come and put in everything he can on Saturday. He has given British fights fans over the years so many phenomenal nights, tracing back against the likes of Lee Selby, Carl Frampton, Kiko Martinez, the first Leigh Wood fight and so many more. For Leigh Wood, his story is quite remarkable. From the early days back in Hull where it looked like things might have been over before they really got going, to back in the bubble when he was fighting for peanuts against Reece Mould to winning a World Title behind-closed-doors at Fight Camp to one of the greatest nights we’ve ever had against Mick Conlon, to the Mauricio Lara fights and of course the battles with Josh Warrington. These fights are generational of British boxing and I cannot wait to watch you two go at it again this Saturday night, live on DAZN. The undercard is quite incredible too. Two guys in Ishmael Davis and Bilal Fawaz with the British & Commonwealth Championship on the line in what is a perfect domestic match-up for our co-Main Event of the evening – two great guys, im a brilliant fight. So much more talent too with the return of the ‘White Rhino’ Dave Allen, young Leo Atang looking to make a charge and a future World Heavyweight Champion, Sandy Ryan, Tiah-Mai Ayton and Molly McCann all in action in what is a brilliant night of boxing. Make sure you tune in.  

LEIGH WOOD
I am confident. And that’s not m thinking it’s going to be easy – because I don’t think it’s going to be easy. In a way, I don’t want it to be because I’ll actually feel even better when I go on and get the victory, like I did in the previous fight. But I am confident. I know what I need to do, it’s a lot clearer. The support in Nottingham is unbelievable and I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone for filling that arena so quick. I was saying to Carl Froch that he inspired me as a kid, going to that arena to watch him and looking around thinking  that I want to do this one day. We’re both going in with the will to win and I’m not underestimating him [Josh]. I know what he brings. We’re both two-time World Champions, so you have to have something about you to get to that level. But I just feel that on Saturday night that my something is going to shine so f****** bright. The things I’ve been working on and what I have been doing in the gym, which up against a fight night are completely different things, but normally in every camp perhaps my spars haven’t been great – in fact, for the Mick Conlon fight, I had one spar so bad and went and hid in the weights room at the gym to have a cry before Ben [Davison] came and found me. So I have sparred quite badly before because I’ve probably tried too hard. But in this camp, the penny has dropped with what I need to do and in my approach to it, so I have been on fire. 

JOSH WARRINGTON
Back in 2024, I retired for a few weeks. I never officially announced it but I had to mull over my career for a bit before I decided to continue. I felt like I still had more than enough to do some more things in this sport. Even though I haave achieved so much and had lots of great memories over the years, in the gym I feel like I’m just getting better and better. I have a more mature mindset. Physically, my numbers keep on getting better and stronger so I’ve trained hard and had a good kick up my backside to keep me working hard throughout – and I feel fantastic. I will show that on Saturday night. The only way I see it going is by stoppage. I can’t really see what Leigh is going to come in and do differently to make it go quicker. I’ve boxed him, I’ve fought him, boxed him on the ropes, and did everything I needed to do until I, obviously, left myself very open. He did catch me with a fantastic shot and then the fight was over. That’s how quickly this sport can be changed. But we know that we have to do more this time around and so I am very, very confident that the fight will go early.  

ISHAMEL DAVIS
He [Bilal Fawaz] just makes me laugh. He’s a comedian. I respect his game but he can’t get into my head. All the talking is fine but on Saturday night, when you get in the ring, it’s all about who does the walking. It’s two days away and it’s nearly time to throw them hands. Am I scared? Let’s just fight! We’ll see who is scared and we will see what will happen next Fight Night. He’s a funny guy, I respect his comedy and I’ll let him take the floor for now but on Saturday’s I’ll be leading the way. There’s nobody who fights like me in British boxing. I’m on job. And you are going to see that on Saturday. I’ve fought everyone who’s been put in front of me, and it’s no different with you. You’re a clown – and all I can do is laugh at you. There is nothing you can say that will get to me. You’ve underestimated me and when you get in there with me, you are going to see the real deal. I’m looking forward to a great fight because I know I’ve done everything that I’ve needed to do. Think whatever you like, Bilal, but when you step inside that ring with me you are going to see some serious business. 

BILAL FAWAZ
I think he [Ishmael] is lying. He is rattled. He’s saying he cannot take me seriously, but he’s laughing because he knows I am a threat. How long has he been in the game? You’re rattled and you know that. You called me an idiot and I will make you pay for that. I promise you. You’re smiling but I will wipe that off of your face. He’s scared, trust me. Look at him. All he has is muscles. You should be afraid of me. You will see. He’s acting like he is not rattled but he is nervous. His body language says it all – all he does is just laugh.I’ve seen your fights and you crumble under pressure. I will snatch hi titles off of him and there i nothing he can do. Piece-by-piece, until there is nothing left. 

DAVE ALLEN
We’re all very proud of Leo [Atang]. A lot of people don’t know this but I’m actually Leo’s uncle. We are all very proud of him. We’re hoping he goes right to the top. So far, so good but there is a long road ahead and on Saturday night, it’s the next step forward for him and we’re all very excited for him. For me, the fella who I’m boxing, I’ve only seen one round of his and I think I’m just going to try and knock him out straight away. Hopefully a first round knockout and then on to whatever is next. Arslenbek Makhmudov is fighting Tyson [Fury] now – I didn’t think I was a million miles away really from possibly that result being different against Makhmudov on a different day. So we’ll have to see what comes next. The British tite? I’m hearing Jeamie TKV is fighting Richard Riakporhe next, so maybe the winner of that. Or for the European Title. I won a title last year – but I’d like to win a proper one. I just want to be in more good fights and make more money and enjoy it.  

LEO ATANG
He [Dan Garber] has been in with some big names. For me in my first four fights, all of them have been quite negative in that they have all fought on the back foot an I’ve almost been having to chase them. But I know he’s game and will come to fight, which will definitely suit me better. Five wins from five? That is the plan.

TIAH-MAI AYTON
I like staying active, so I’m always ready to go again and learn more things whenever I start a new camp. I hope this year to be winning my first title. I don’t know what that is yet – but I just want anything. 

MOLLY McCANN
Tiah and I sparred together and she taught me a hell of a lot. Our teams get on really well together, so we had a nice, tough last week together before we’ve got to do this. She is the best. I really believe so. I didn’t know – sometimes it might just be a bit of propaganda. But the way she carries herself, how calm she is, very methodical, so it is brilliant to share a card with her. For me, coming from MMA everything is geared to be so intense to getting the finish. So, when I moved to this sport I got the finish in my first fight and I tried to rush it a bit too much in the second. I wasn’t really into my opponent because she was burning my head out all week. But i learned so many lessons. I’m six months in to a new sport for my third fight this weekend, I need these lessons. After my last fight, I messaged Eddie and said I was sorry for not getting the finish, and was just being really down on myself. He just told me not to be down on myself and go and enjoy what I’m supposed to be doing because this is why you’re doing it – in four, five, six fights time I’ll be fighting for belts, so I need to make the most out of these lessons whilst I can. I’ve had a great camp, including some great rounds with Tiah, and I’m ready to go and play a bit more of a game of chess than just go in like a windmill.   

Leigh Wood says he is ready to turn back the clock and get the job done even quicker when he collides with arch-rival Josh Warrington this Saturday – live worldwide on DAZN.

Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena is completely sold out for their ‘Last Man Standing’ return – a rematch, some two-and-a-half years in the making, that Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn has dubbed “s*** or bust” for the two former World Champions.

Wood, who celebrated a dramatic turnaround to stop the ‘Leeds Warrior’ Warrington in the seventh round of their first meeting back in October 2023 in Sheffield, is supremely confident that he will have his hand raised again in triumph and he does not want to leave his opponent with any ‘excuses’ this time round.

“He [Josh] gets himself into tremendous shape,” said Wood, speaking to Matchroom Boxing’s Make the Days Count series on YouTube.

“He has a great engine and throws a lot of punches. But that gives someone like me great opportunities. 

“He can say whatever he wants because on fight night I am going to batter him anyway.”

Warrington, meanwhile, is counting down the days until Saturday as he plots revenge against Wood in front of what promises to be a red-hot capacity crowd in Nottingham.

Warrington said: “The game plan? Don’t get caught! I like to watch my fights back if I win, but I don’t like to watch them when I’m getting chinned. I went diving in last time against Leigh [Wood] and it cost me. 

“I’ve just got to concentrate on what I do well and stay switched on for every single second. I feel stronger than I ever have been.”

A revved up Molly McCann is preparing for a special start to 2026 after being announced on next month’s “electric” Wood-Warrington II undercard – live on DAZN.

Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena is set to be completely sold out on Saturday, February 21, when two former World Champions – and bitter enemies – Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington collide in an eagerly awaited rematch.

And Super Bantamweight McCann, who last year switched to Boxing following an incredibly successful MMA career, wants to make a big impression earlier in the evening when she steps inside the ropes for the third time – looking to extend her perfect start in the professional ranks following her recent win last November against Ebonie Cotton in Birmingham. 

“I cannot wait to fight on the Wood-Warrington II undercard,” said Merseyside’s McCann, speaking to Matchroom Boxing. 

“I know how amazing both sets of fans are. Trust me, the atmosphere at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham is going to be absolutely electric. 

“I’m looking forward to sharing the rest of the card with some incredible fighters. But, mainly, I’m very excited to show how much I have levelled up since my last fight and get this massive year off to a good start. It’s huge for me.”

Ishamel Davis (15-3, 6 KOs) makes the first defence of his British Super Welterweight crown when he faces Matchroom Boxing’s recent recruit, Bilal Fawaz (10-1-1, 3 KOs).

The Londoner overcame Junaid Bostan (10-1-1, 8 KOs) – who also returns to action on February 21 – in a thrilling, tough-fought contest last October in Sheffield and will be determined to upset the odds again.

But Davis, who conquered Sam Gilley in an enthralling bout back in November 2025 on the Benn-Eubank II card at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, will be in no mood to surrender his newly acquired title at the first time of asking.

Popular Heavyweight hero Dave Allen (24-8-2, 19 KOs) is back in action too as he looks to set up some huge fight nights ahead and bounce back to winning ways following his October spirited defeat by Arslanbek Makhmudov. 

One of Britain’s very best and Derby’s own Sandy Ryan (8-3-1, 3 KOs) bids to become a two-weight World Champion when she takes on Mexico’s fearsome Karla Ramos Zamora (12-10-2, 4 KOs) for the vacant WBC World Super Lightweight Title. 

And former WBO Welterweight queen Ryan is joined on the card by future mega star of female Boxing, Tiah-Mai Ayton (4-0, 4 KOs) as the teenage Bantamweight – dubbed by the great, Katie Taylor as a future Undisputed ruler of the world – goes up against Brazil’s Catherine Tacone Ramos (9-3-1, 2 KOs), looking to stretch her flawless record.

For all the latest news and updates, follow @matchroomboxing on social media.

Matchroom Boxing will begin the new year with a host of blockbuster events across the UK and US as promoter Eddie Hearn today revealed its stellar start to 2026 – delivered to fight fans all part of their subscription with the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.

With his pledge to ‘Make Boxing Great Again’, Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing get things up and running on Saturday, January 24 at the incredible Fontainebleau Las Vegas in the heart of the famous Nevada strip, when Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz challenges for his first World Title against reigning IBF Lightweight ruler Raymond Muratalla.

One week later, on Saturday, January 31, the IBF strap is on the line in the first UK card of the year as Matchroom Boxing’s latest addition Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly, fighting in his native North-East at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, goes up against undefeated World Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev.

February sees two outstanding back-to-back shows, beginning with a long awaited domestic grudge rematch between two former World Champions when bitter rivals Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington collide on Saturday, February 21, at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.

Then, on Saturday, February 28, we look forward to a monumental all-Mexican clash in the Arizonan desert when IBF World Super Featherweight king Eduardo Sugar Núñez and WBO Champion Emanuel Navarrete meet in a mouth-watering unification battle at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, USA.

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “I told you all we would be coming in hot – and this is proof that we are standing on business. By kicking off the new year with some of the best fights you will see in the sport, we really will ‘Make Boxing Great Again’.

“Andy Cruz finally gets his shot to win his first world title, before our latest new signing bids to become one of Britain’s next World Champions. Then all eyes will be on two former kings – and absolute bitter enemies – in what will be a must-see rematch between two brilliant warriors in Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington. And Naverette-Nunez is an all-out Mexican war that every fight fan needs. This promises to be one of the contests of the year. What is even better is that all of these brilliant events will be live and exclusive worldwide as part of your subscription plan on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”

Cuba’s undefeated 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games hero Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) is confident he will begin the new year as he means to go on, by upsetting Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) on January 24 in Vegas, and fulfilling his ultimate childhood dream of becoming a World Champion.

Cruz said: “This is the moment I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid. Raymond Muratalla is a great fighter, but I believe I’m on another level. I’ve sacrificed everything to get here, and that’s why I came to the United States to make history in the best boxing in the world. On fight night, the world will see the real Andy Cruz and why I’m ready to become a World Champion.”

Muratalla is confident, however, that his first defence will be a successful one – but knows Cruz will present a tough challenge.

Muratalla said: “I’m excited to make my first title defence against a worthy contender in Andy Cruz. I know the fans are excited for this fight, and I’m coming to Las Vegas to prove I’m the class of the lightweight division. Thank you to Top Rank, Matchroom, and DAZN for making this fight happen. This is what boxing needs —more great fights — and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Matchroom Boxing’s new recruit Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs) shares that dream too – and he hopes he will deliver a memorable night in Newcastle as he bids to dethrone the 23-0 (17 KOs) unbeaten American-based knockout artist Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) on January 31.

Josh Kelly said: “What can I say, I’m back to where it all started, being promoted by Matchroom Boxing, in time to realise my dream. I want to say a huge thank you to Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith. I am massively excited and I am looking forward to the next phase of my career, becoming World Champion in 2026 with Matchroom and fulfilling my potential that has always been there. Also, I want to say a big thank you to Wasserman for everything they have done for me over the last few years and getting me into a mandatory position.”

There is no love lost between Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington. And with his fervent home support behind him in Nottingham on February 21, former two-time WBA World Featherweight Champion Wood (28-4, 17 KOs) is determined to prove that his stunning seventh round knockout that settled their barnstorming 2023 encounter was no fluke.

Leigh Wood said: “I’ve been gathering my four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, and a rabbit’s foot for luck. Because apparently that’s all it was last time.”

Warrington (32-4-1, 8 KOs), the former two-time IBF World Featherweight Champion, is out for redemption as he looks to scratch a longstanding itch to defeat his arch-nemesis.

Josh Warrington said: “It’s finally here, I can close a chapter that has irritated me for the last two years. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’m ready now.”

And Eduardo Sugar Núñez (29-1, 27 KOs) – who earlier this year won the IBF crown on away soil in Japan against Masanori Rikiishi – has his heart firmly set on adding more hardware to his collection and what he believes will be a battle for the ages in Glendale on February 28 against fellow countryman Navarette (39-2-1, 32 KOs).

Eduardo Sugar Núñez said: “I’m very excited and eager to be in the ring with Vaquero. He’s a fighter I’ve always admired, and it will be an honor to unify the titles. Above all, it will be a great fight for all the fans. Mexico vs. Mexico is a guaranteed war. And this one will be no exception”

Navarette has ruled the world as a three-weight World Champion over the past seven years – and is now determined to fulfil his ambition of becoming a unified king in what he has vowed will be an unmissable night in Arizona.

Navarette said: “In my seven years as World Champion, I’ve always been clamoring to unify my titles, and finally, my dream is coming true. I want to tell everyone to expect a war between Mexicans and that I’m willing to die fighting to defend what’s mine. I have a lot of respect for ‘Sugar’ Nuñez, but this is my moment, and he’s going to face a ‘Vaquero’ who’s twice as motivated. And to all the people of Phoenix who have always supported me, I promise you a war and a great show. I’m going to win this fight.”

All of these events are available exclusively to DAZN viewers as part of their regular subscription.

DAZN VP Alfie Sharman said: “We are starting 2026 with a bang with World Title fights, grudge matches and local heroes. These Fight Nights have it all. All unmissable – and all part of your subscription only on DAZN.”

Further fights, ticket news and media accreditation details will follow separately in due course for each of these events. You can follow all the latest updates first by following @matchroomboxing across our social media platforms.

‘The Hurt Game’ happens at the Nottingham Arena on Saturday night where local favourite and former two-time world featherweight champion Leigh Wood challenges the IBO world super featherweight and previously IBF world champion Anthony Cacace in a highly anticipated main event, live on DAZN.

The two men, along with promoter Frank Warren and fighters from the undercard, gathered today at the Albert Hall for the final press conference and below are some key quotes from the media event.

Download the photos from today in Nottingham
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*Where possible, please credit: Queensberry/Leigh Dawney

Below are a selection of key quotes from the final press conference:

Frank Warren
“I am delighted to be here and Queensberry is really pleased to be here in Nottingham with Anto and Leigh. It is a special fight and it is going to be a special night. Saturday we will maybe get Fight of the Year or it will certainly be a contender between two extremely, extremely good boxers.

“The IBO title is on the line for the winner of the fight and it is a must-win fight for both of them. The winner will go on and be involved in a massive fight this year.

“They know what it is all about and they know what they’ve got to do. I think we are going to see something extra, extra special.”

Anthony Cacace
“This is all new in Nottingham and it feels like I am in Belfast, to be honest. It is a great city. I am here, Leigh is my third two-time world champion in a row. If you looked at my life two years ago, I was nowhere, now I am fighting these calibre of fighters. I’ve nothing but respect for Leigh, but I am here to do a job in Nottingham and I will do that on Saturday night.

“I have been welcomed with open arms, there hasn’t been too much animosity or anything like that. It is just another fight for me. I could have done this fight in Belfast if I wanted and I am sure Leigh would have travelled, but I decided to come to Nottingham because I though Leigh sells a lot of tickets and it would be something new for me.

“I’m just raring to go, it doesn’t matter where it is. It is Leigh Wood who is in front of me and I’ve watched him for years. When I wasn’t really doing much and not getting opportunities, I was watching him fight. He is the Cinderella Man of Nottingham and I would love to come here and do the business.”

Leigh Wood
“I am extremely excited for Saturday night. It has been way too long out of the ring, but not out of the gym. I’ve been staying disciplined and trying to get big fights for a while. I’ve had injuries but at the end of last year I was ready to go and was sat around. I saw the fight between Cacace and Warrington, he did a great job, now we are finally here.

“I’ve got a few belts already, so this is more about the win, the name and what Cacace has achieved. Taking that scalp is a lot more important to me.”

Leigh Wood has decided to move up to the super featherweight division, leaving the World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight belt vacant.

The British fighter recently defended his crown with a spectacular knockout over Josh Warrington on October 7 and had already announced unofficially his intention to move up to 130 pounds. This week, his team sent the formal communication of his decision to the pioneering body.  

“We would like to express our sincere thanks to the WBA for their support and for allowing Leigh to win, defend and ultimately regain his world honors. The WBA has played a crucial role in shaping Leigh’s career, and we are truly grateful for the experiences he has gained during his time as Featherweight Champion,” noted the letter sent. 

The text also mentions Ben Davison, Wood’s trainer and a great professional, who says he is in tune with the decision and sends words of thanks to the WBA for all the opportunities provided at 126 pounds. 

The championships committee will study the present of the category and the rankings of the organization in order to make a decision regarding who will fight for the vacant belt.

The WBA thanks Wood for always wearing the belt with respect, honor and courage, and hopes to see him soon fighting for a new black and gold belt and representing the WBA colors.

Leigh Wood scored yet another shocking knockout. This time he stopped former world champion Josh Warrington in the seventh round to retain the WBA Featherweight title in Sheffield, England.

Warringtom started to seize control by working on the inside and landing some crisp punches that seemed to briefly stun Wood on several occasions.

In round five, Wood began to bleed around his right eye.

In round seven, Warrington was deducted a point for hitting behind the head. At the end of the round, Wood landed a crusging right hook to the chin that set off a five punch flurry that was punctuated by another perfect right hook to the chin that was followed by a left that sent Warrington to the deck and the fight was stopped at the bell.

Wood, 125.7 lbs of Nottingham, ENG is 28-3 with 17 knockouts. Warrington, 125.3 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 31-3-1.

Harper and Braekhus Battle to Draw in Junior Middle Title bout

Terri Harper retained the WBA Super Welterweight title as she and former Pound-For-Pound queen Cecilia Braekhus battled to a 10-round draw.

Harper landed 77 of 233 punches. Braekhus was 82 of 307.

Harper won a scorecard 97-93, while two cards were even at 95-95.

Harper, 150.4 lbs of Denaby, ENG is 14-1-2. Braekhus, 153.9 lbs of Bergen. NOR is 37-2-1.

Conway Stops Udofia Due to Eye Closure

Kieron Conway stopped Linus Udofia in the sixth round due to the right eye of Udofia being closed in a scheduled 12-round middleweight bout.

Conway landed a big left hook that started closing Udofia’s eye in round five and the fight was stopped by the referee stopped the bout at two seconds of round six.

Conway, 159.6 lbs of Northampton, ENG is now 20-3-1 with five knockouts. Udofia, 159.4 lbs of Luton, ENG is now 18-2.

Price Stops Coghill in 12th

Hopey Price remained undefeated and stopped Connor Coghill in the 12th and final round of their featherweight fight.

At the end of round six, Price landed a perfect right hook to the jaw that was followed by a short left to the same spot that put Coghill on the canvas.

In round 11, Price landed a perfect straight left to the jaw that sent Coghill to the canvas. In round 12, Price came out fast and landed some hard body shots that crumpled Coghill to a knee and the bout was stopped at 1:29.

Price, 125.3 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 12-0 with five knockouts. Coghill, 125.4 lbs of Hull, ENG is 14-1.

Bostan Stops McCullough in 6

Junaid Bostan remained undefeated with a sixth-round stoppage over Corey McCoullugh in an eight-round super welterweight. bout.

Bostan dominated the action and opened up a big flurry in round six that forced a stoppage at 2:07

Bostan, 155.7 lbs of Rotherham, ENG is 7-0 with six knockouts. McCoullough, 154.9 lbs of Arbroath, SCO is 7-4-1.

Nico Leivars won an eight-round decision over Ryan Walker in super bantamweight contest.

Leivars, 123.5 lbs of Mansfield, ENG is 5-0-1. Walker, 123.1 lbs of Newham, ENG is 12-6.

Cameron Vuong made a successful pro debut with a fourth-round stoppage over Engel Gomez in a six-round lightweight bout.

In round four, Vuong dropped Gomez with a right to the body and the fight was stopped at 1:19.

Vuong, 137.4 lbs of Bluth, ENG is 1-0 with one knockout. Gomez, 138.1 lbs of Chinandega, NIC is 8-19-1/

Koby McNamara remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Francisco Rodriguez in a bantamweight fight.

In the final round, McNamara dropped Rodriguez with a right hook.

McNamara, 117.8 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a score of 60-53 and is mow 6-0. Rodriguez, 118.8 lbs of Alfacar. SPA is 1-18.

6 x 3 mins International Bantamweight contest 
KOBY MCNAMARA 117.8 lbs v FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ  118.8 lbs
(Leeds, England)                        (Alfacar, Spain)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
CAMERON VUONG 137.4 lbs v ENGEL GOMEZ 138.1 lbs
(Bluth, England)                         (Chinandega, Nicaragua)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest
NICO LEIVARS 123.5 lbs v RYAN WALKER 123.1 lbs
(Mansfield, England)          (Newham, England)

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 3 mins International Super-Welterweight contest
JUNAID BOSTAN 155.7 lbs v COREY MCCULLOCH 154.9 lbs
(Rotherham, England)            (Arbroath, Scotland)

followed by

12 x 3 mins Final Eliminator For British Featherweight Title & WBA Continental Featherweight Title
HOPEY PRICE 125.3 lbs v CONNOR COGHILL 125.4 lbs
(Leeds, England)                (Hull, England)  

followed by

12 x 3 mins Final Eliminator for British Middleweight Title & WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Title
KIERON CONWAY 159.6 lbs v LINUS UDOFIA 159.4 lbs
(Northampton, England)         (Luton, England)  

followed by 

10 x 2 mins WBA & WBO Super-Welterweight World Titles
TERRI HARPER 150.4 lbs v CECILIA BRAEKHUS 153.9 lbs
(Denaby Main, England)      (Bergen, Norway)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Featherweight World Title
LEIGH WOOD 125.7 lbs v JOSH WARRINGTON 125.3 lbs
(Nottingham, England)      (Leeds, England)

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“This is a true British classic, two two-time World Champions battle it out on Saturday night in front of 10,000 in Sheffield, the atmosphere is going to be incredible. 

“Two British greats, I think that is the best way to describe them. I’ve seen both guys at their highest and both at their lowest, and what they have always done is given us unbelievable entertainment, and on Saturday night, they put it all on the line once again.

“This is a top-class card from top to bottom, from Before The Bell, into local derbies, British Title Eliminators and unified World Titles, it’s a top night of boxing live across the world on DAZN.”

Alfie Sharman, VP DAZN:

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of such an amazing schedule, delivering for our customer base. We can’t wait for this event on Saturday, you have two British greats in one of the biggest domestic shows out there, two fighting men with fighting cities behind them. We wish the both the best of luck. 

“There’s some amazing fights coming up and in the UK most are part of your DAZN subscription. It’s incredible value and a  continued commitment from us to provide the best value to boxing fans, we truly believe our current schedule is unrivalled in the business worldwide.”

Leigh Wood:
 
“I don’t think that my power will be the key to victory, but I have got it if I need it. Three fights inside eight months, I’m coming towards the end of my career and I said I wanted to be busy while I’ve got the chance to be busy, because there’s a time I can see creeping up on me where I won’t have the choice. I love boxing, I love this fight with a former champion in the other corner, and I am ready. Power won’t be the deciding factor, there’s a lot of other things that go around it. The culture of trainers in this country that say ‘whoever wants it more will win, whoever is the strongest and hits the hardest will win, whoever is the fittest will win’. It’s not, my team are changing the game and there’s a lot more to boxing than people see. My perception has changed since being with Ben and you will see that on Saturday night.

“The Lara rematch was the best I’ve felt. After the loss, I said I could have gone back in with him ten minutes later, I knew the mistakes I made and the adjustments needed, it was a frustrating night in Nottingham packed with my own fans, but the fast turnaround suited me, I’ve had a little break and holiday to switch off but then back in the gym, and here we are, it’s come around just like that.

“Josh has had some really good wins, possibly better than mine. He’s here because of those credentials, not any other reason. It’s going to be an electric atmosphere and I’m expecting it to be the best I’ve ever witnessed, especially on my ring walk, we’ve sold more tickets than we’ve ever done so it’s going to be a great night and one that will go down in history. I want to remembered as one of the best Featherweights from this country and one of the best fighters from my own city. 

“A KO is a possibility, I am not going to go out there banking on knocking him out, but I am going to be dominant. I know Josh is very tough, I’ve been ringside for a number of his fights, especially the Kiko fight, that sticks out for me. He got hurt and he was close to being stopped himself when he got his stoppage, so I know he can bite down and give everything he needs to, but at what cost because there will be times in this fight when he needs to work extremely hard just to win a moment, and I will make him pay for those moments.”

Josh Warrington:

“I’m not offended that I am not the favourite, if anything it’s motivation. Leigh is the champion, and I’ve been given this opportunity so I am very grateful for that. What does annoy me is being written off, I’m finished, that’s given me the bit between my teeth. Last year I dominated Kiko Martinez inside seven rounds and I dominated the second half of the Lopez fight, and people are talking about how well he’s done since our fight. 

“I’m hungry, I haven’t felt like this for a long time and throughout this camp and the whole year, my head has been in a very good place, focused, and I think that the only reason I’ve lost before is mindset. Physically I’m always good, I live in the gym and I am obsessed with training, so the mindset has let me down in the past.

“Time goes on, I’ve been in this sport a long time and there’s a few more grey hairs and the hairline starts a bit further back now, but I feel mature as far as my boxing brain. I would think about the big fights and that 12 rounds is a long time, but it’s not, 36 minutes is not a long time. I know I can adapt and my boxing brain has matured, working on setting up shots, my power and strength have developed. At times, I’ve been economical with punches instead of throwing 85 punch combinations, setting up the shots a little more. You have stages of your career and I am at a good one in this moment in time, but it’s easy to say that, I need to show it on Saturday night.

“My knockouts have come at championship level, the stoppages have come when it’s mattered the most. I know I can dig. It was 15 fights before I got my first stoppage, I didn’t get any coming up against journeymen and people were maybe right to think that I wasn’t a puncher but that was a bit down to my style, not sitting down on the punches. But I have got the KOs and stoppages when it has mattered. I am not a one-punch KO guy, an Edwin Valero type, but I know I have enough to hurt you and I don’t worry about what anyone else thinks, I know I have enough to hurt Leigh and I am very confident that he doesn’t hear the final bell.

“I always visualise different moments and scenarios, I just have a really strong feeling that this one doesn’t see the final bell. It’s alright having power, but being able to take a shot is another thing, so it’s something that’s stuck with me through this camp that this is going to end early and I will be once, twice, three times a champion.”

Ben Davison:

“They are two ultimate professionals and not the type of guys that are going to have a push and a pull. Every single time they step through the ropes they bring the heat, there’s a lot of mutual respect as there should be. We’re under no illusions that Josh is a tenacious MF when he gets in there and with the atmosphere, everything on the line and the two fanbases, it’s rare that you get two fighters that thrive off the atmosphere, I just think all roads lead to an absolute barnstormer.

“(Inactivity) I’m sure Josh doesn’t spend too much tie out of the gym, Leigh certainly doesn’t, so I don’t think you can read too much into that. Both of them are more versatile then they are given credit for so there’s lots of scenarios and outcomes in the fight and how it might play out. I think once it catches fire it’s going to be one for the history books.”

Terri Harper:

“When the fight first got announced it went down so well with boxing fans, and when Cecilia had to pull out on the moving of the fight I was gutted. Luckily I got out the following week so the camp didn’t go to waste, but now it’s been rescheduled and in front of a home crowd and there’s another belt up for grabs, it’s a much bigger fight and I am excited to get out there in Sheffield Arena, a place I’ve had the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Saturday night is made for me, I’ve been under the radar in my last couple of fights just rebuilding, and this is where I am going to get back up there and have people talking about me.

“I feel that I am at the stage of my career where I want to push on for the big fights. I want the money, I want a good house, and I feel I am ready now. So get a good win again Cecilia on Saturday and it really opens up the doors for me, but I have to remember I am in the ring with a great athlete, great fighter, she’s shared the ring with some great champions and it’s a fight that I feel I will learn a lot from, but I am ready to be let out of the cage now and get the job done in a good style.

“The support is always great and I think everyone is going to be at the arena on Saturday night. I got goosebumps driving over just remembering how great this arena is on a fight night. The last time here I was mardy because the plans had changed but this week I’m going to soak up every moment of it.”

Cecilia Braekhus:

“Second time around, last time I woke up on fight day and I was sick. I knew right away when I opened my eyes that this is not going to happen. I went to the bathroom and I was dizzy, and when that happens, you are not going to get in the ring, so I just called and said ‘this is off’. It wasn’t even for discussion. It was heartbreaking of course, I want to thank Matchroom and Team Harper for giving me the fight again. They didn’t have to, they could have gone another way. We know that this is going to be a great fight, we’ve been locked in on each other for two camps now and I think there’s a whole different energy right now. It’s going to be twice as good as it was going to be and there’s another belt on the line too. It’s not a must-win, I want to win and I will win, that’s more my mindset.

“Terri was bigger than me when we did the weigh-in last time, she’s a big Welter, so I don’t think that size is going to be the big factor in this fight, it’s going to be boxing skills and I think I have the boxing skills to win.”

Kieron Conway:

“This is very important for me and I see it as a must-win fight. I came off the loss in Las Vegas and I am putting it right with this performance. I need to prove to myself and everyone else what I am about, and what I say I am, I am. I don’t believe I win this fight, I know I win this fight.

“I welcome the pressure. It’s not a fight that I necessarily had to take but we chose this fight. It’s a good fight, I need a good domestic win and this could put me in good stead moving forward. I’m coming in knowing I will win. I’ve been putting things right in and out of the gym, and now it’s time to put it all together.”

Linus Udofia:

“This is must-win, 100 per cent. It’s a good fight for boxing, two good styles, we both really want it, and on Saturday that will show.

“We’ve both had big nights, I’ve headlined shows, been on big cards and I’ve had my fair share of experience, and that all comes out on Saturday night. This is the best Linus Udofia you are going to see out there.”

Junaid Bostan:

“If you don’t ask, you don’t get – it was this time last year I was in the same room giving you stick Eddie because you weren’t signing me; now I am asking you to put me higher on the card.

“Life is good, I’m performing well. Back-to-back fights in Sheffield Arena, I can’t complain being from these ends, it’s a massive card to be part of and I’m privileged to be on it.

“December 16 in Arizona is in the back of my mind, but I cannot look past Saturday and getting a stoppage.”

Hopey Price:

“I’ve got an undefeated fighter in front of me, 14-0, but who has he boxed? I believe I have been in with far better opposition, so for me this isn’t a step-up, it’s a stepping stone to get me that British title and you’ll see the difference in levels on Saturday night, he’s in serious trouble.

“It will be a straightforward victory for me, whatever he’s got, I’ve got an answer for, I’m just an all-round better boxer, better fighter; if he wants to mix it up I can mix it up, I just believe i’m better in every aspect and everyone will see on Saturday night that I am going to win and do it in tremendous style.

“It’s going to be rocking, there will be plenty of Leeds supporters in there, o want to put on a good performance and show everyone that I am the next star from Leeds and will carry that flag moving forward.”

Connor Coghill:

“It’s a massive opportunity for me being on the big stage, but it’s one I think I deserve. I’m 14-0, I’ve been hustling on the small hall shows, selling tickets, waiting for these opportunities so I have done it the hard way. I got this opportunity on Saturday and I’ve sacrificed a lot, I’ve been sleeping on a sofa in the gym for the last ten weeks, I’ve given everything for this fight.

“I’ve done everything I can to make myself right so I am going to give everything in there. If I have to change the gameplan halfway through, I will, but I am here to win and that’s the main thing.

“A win on Saturday night changes my life so I am going all in.”

Cameron Vuong:

“I’m ready to go and ready to show why I am one of Matchroom’s best prospects, and make a big statement on Saturday night.

“I’ve got a great team and it’s a big thank you to Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis for taking me on. I think it’s the best move for my career, getting away from any distractions and putting the graft in. I’ve had a really good camp, training and sparring with Jack Catterall for his fight with Jorge Linares, and I’m looking forward to showing you what I am all about.

“I want to stay active and hopefully have two or three more fights before the end of the year.”

Nicole Leivars:

“It’s a step-up but one I am more than ready for, it’s more rounds and a better opponent who’s got pedigree from who he’s faced, but I think it will bring the best out of me and you’ll see that in my performance.

“After my last win, after a few weeks I was back in the gym, doing ten rounds in sparring, training hard in Tenerife, it’s been a really good camp and you’ll see the hard work.”

Koby McNamara:

“I’m buzzing to be back on the big stage again. I can’t wait to get in that arena on Saturday night, put on a good performance and hopefully it opens more doors for me. 

“It’s going to be a big night for Leeds, we’ll be getting three wins here.”

Fight week got underway in Sheffield this evening as Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington were put through their paces during the Public Workout in the Memorial Hall at Sheffield City Hall ahead of a huge World Title double-header at the Utilita Arena Sheffield this Saturday October 7, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

The Featherweight rivals, who clash for the WBA World Title on neutral ground, were joined by fighters on the undercard, including WBA Super-Welterweight World Champion Terri Harper and former world pound-for-pound number one Cecilia Breakhus.  

Nottingham’s defending Champion Wood (27-3, 16 KOs) made a spectacular entrance, arriving in a custom wrapped Ferrari supercar, before performing a short workout that consisted of skipping and shadow boxing for the fans and media in attendance. 

Former IBF king Warrington (31-2-1, 8 KOs) will be bidding to become a three-time Featherweight World Champion after surrendering his World Title to Mexico’s Luis Alberto Lopez at the First Direct Arena in Leeds last time out.

Leigh Wood:

“Cool, calm and collected. I’ve done everything that I needed to do. I know what I need to do on the night. This is just all the theatrical part of it for me. I’m counting down the days. Tomorrow is probably the worst day – the press conference. It drags, but I’m getting better at it with every camp – right at the end of my career. I can’t wait until fight night. 

“It’s been respectful between us all camp. I think Josh is starting to get slightly aggressive, starting to swear a little bit. He thinks people will like him if he swears a little bit more. The last fews days, I think he’s changing a little bit. He might even be trying to rattle me, I don’t know. Like I said, I’m cool, calm and collected and I know what I’ve got to do. 

“I’ve been at this level many times. He’s going to do what he always does and I’ll do what I always do. I feel like I’ve always had the potential, but I was missing a little bit of guidance. I got to a high level doing things on my own, but since I’ve teamed up with Ben it’s brought out the best in me and it’s showing on fight night. I make less mistakes and I capitalise on my opponents – it’s taken me to another level.”

Josh Warrington:

“It’s just here isn’t it, it’s here. You just want to get in there and fight. He’s stood there. Have I got an adrenaline rush? No, I’m pretty chilled out. We’ve got to do all of this media stuff, the open workouts, it’s all part of the promotion. We know when Saturday comes, that’s when the real stuff happens. This kind of helps speed up the week a little bit. I don’t mind it. Listen, I’d rather be sat at home watching Homes Under the Hammer with my feet up, but it speeds up the time. 

“I’ve said it throughout my career, every fight has been must-win. Go back to the 31st of October, 2009 my professional debut – that was a must-win. I wanted to get off on winning ways. As your career goes on, that next one is your biggest one. In terms of is it my biggest night altogether, you’ll have t ask me that when I’m done and retired. At this moment in time in my career it’s the biggest fight. 

“I pinched myself becoming a World Champion, never mind a three-time World Champion. That’s not bad that. I’m going to be asking for freebies around where I live. It’s fantastic, but we’re not done. There’s this and there’s more to add to it. I still strongly believe that I can add more to my career. I always say Josh Warrington win no matter how it comes, but this one, I don’t see it going 12 rounds.”

Terri Harper:

“I’m very grateful that we’ve been able to reschedule the fight. It’s a better fight now there’s another belt on the line. Now I get to do it in front of a home crowd. I’ve got to go out there on Saturday night, obviously respect that she’s got all of this experience over me and she’s one of the greatest, but I’ve got to use my youth and my speed and everything to my advantage. I’ve really got to stick it on her.

“I feel like Cecilia likes to have things at her pace. She’s got a good jab, one thing I’ve got to take away from her is her jab. Take that away then I’ve just got to be busy. There’s no respect on the night, during the fight. She’s there trying to stop me from reaching my goals and achieving my dreams to that’s how I see it. After the fight that’s when I’ll show respect.”

Kieron Conway:

“I’m very well. I feel really good. I’m happy to be here, finally, because it’s been such a long time since I’ve been in the ring – February, so it’s been a good few months. I just want to get going, I’m desperate to get going. Camp has been very good, I’m more than ready. I just need to get in there now. 

“I had a little injury. It never stops, you always get injured in this game, it’s a rough game. But I’m here now and I’m fully ready, fully fit and 100% injury free and ready to go. I’ve had some time to work on myself, mentally and physically. I’m just good go. I need to get in there and put everything into place that I’ve been working on. Not putting too much pressure on myself saying I’m this and I’m that.

“I’ve been around the block, been around the world. This is where it all comes into play now and I put it all together. Put all of the pieces together in the right places. I’ve got nothing to take away from Linus, I’m just here to win though. It doesn’t matter who’s in the opposite corner at the minute, I’m in mindset and a place, there only outcome here is a win for me.”

Linus Udofia:

“I’m feeling very well. I can’t wait man, I can’t wait. It’s been a long time coming – this was meant to happen in May but it didn’t. It is what it is, we’re here now. We’re here now and I cannot wait. I’m going to show him he’s not levels above me. I’m going to show him that he’s one dimensional and he can’t do much. When it gets hard he just coasts. I can do a lot more than him. I outclass him in every single department. I don’t see him beating me. It is what it is and we’ll see on Saturday. 

“Denzel has gone on to do great things. Not even talking about defeats, I beat Tyler Denny for the English Title, now he’s fighting for the European. And we’re talking about levels above? Kieron Conway – what’s his best win? JJ Metcalf. My best win is Tyler Denny. I’m jut saying let’s not talk about levels – let’s show it on Saturday.”

Hopey Price:

“I was never in a rush but I’ve always wanted to pick up these titles. I’ve picked up three titles in eleven fights. These Intercontinental belts are good, they get you a good world ranking. I think I’m thirteen with the WBA and I’m in those top rankings. They’re good but I’ve always wanted to do it the traditional way. I’ve always wanted the British Title, I’ve spoken about it since a young age saying I’d like to give it to my dad one day. I’m close to it now. 

“I want to clean up, I want the full lot. British, Commonwealth, European, World amateur Champion, Youth Olympic Gold, so I want to do the same in the pros. Put on another good performance this weekend, do my job, and then I’m in line for the British Title so it’s going to be next. Weever that may be, hopefully I can get it back in Leeds – that would be good wouldn’t it.”

Nottingham’s Leigh Wood is just days away from defending his WBA Featherweight World Title against domestic rival Josh Warrington in a huge all-British clash on neutral ground at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, live worldwide on DAZN. 

Ahead of this Saturday’s highly anticipated showdown, both men sat down with Ade Oladipo to film a special feature length Face Off, as the build-up to what promises to be one of the biggest fights of the year continues.

Nottingham favourite Wood (27-3, 16 KOs) produced a 12-round masterclass against Mexico’s hard-hitting dangerman Mauricio Lara to reclaim his WBA 126lbs crown last time out in May at Manchester’s AO Arena to become Britain’s latest two-time World Champion. 

Leeds hero Warrington (31-2-1, 8 KOs) is aiming to become a three-time Featherweight World Champion after surrendering his IBF belt to Mexico’s Luis Alberto Lopez following a close points loss at the First Direct Arena last December – his first defeat in his home city. 

Leigh Wood:

Did you ever think you were going to get your opportunities for big fights?

“There were times when I thought I wasn’t going to get the opportunities. There were times when I thought it might pass me by. I always knew I was good enough to win these fights and be at this level. But I thought, ‘Am I going to get these opportunities?’ When I was sat there in the gym in Sheffield and things would come in and fall through all the time. I was going back to my flat and I was crying some days. All I wanted was a chance. I would have fought anyone. One time there was talks, Frampton’s opponent pulled out of a show. I think it was about three weeks’ notice. I told my management I’d take it. That’s how desperate I was getting at the time. There were times when I thought it may not ever happen.”

How did this one come about?

“I’d been on my own path. I got the opportunity for the World Title, I won the World Title, and then I had to defend against Conlan because they were sorting the belt situation out. That was out of my hands. Then I got a choice of who to fight and Josh had a fight at the time for the World Title so the next best person for me was the person that beat him. This fight for me made sense because I thought it was going to happen at the City Ground. The best person, probably one of the only opponents in that division to headline that fight at the City Ground, was Josh. It makes perfect sense. The rivalries, the cities and the clubs. I was gunning for the fight. Once we’d sorted negotiating the fight, we found out we couldn’t have it at the City Ground, the fight was made so it was like, ‘let’s just do it anyway’.

Do you think Josh is a dirty fighter?

“No I don’t. Without giving too much away I think Josh is good on the inside. He does the right things, head down, hips back. I think if you don’t know what you’re doing in those situations, and you stay where you are – you’re going to clash heads. I can see why people get cut. If you look at other fighters he’s boxed, it’s not been a problem. It depends what you’re doing as his opponent.”

What kind of atmosphere do you expect it to be?

“I think it’s going to be great. The Conlan fight – the atmosphere was unbelievable. The fans battle back and forth. When it’s your own arena and you fill it yourself, you get the entrance – sometimes it goes a little bit quiet. You need a reason to keep going. When my fans hear his fans, and his fans hear my fans – they’re going to keep going.”

Do you think you can knock Josh out?

“Yeah. I’ve been ringside for his last three fights, I’ve seen him get hurt. I know he’s tough. I don’t believe the people he’s been hurt by hit as hard as me and at the same time aren’t as calculated as me, so they might land a few good shots but are they good finishers? Have they got good set ups? I don’t think they have. I think Lara is a big puncher, not calculated, he doesn’t do what he needs to do. He’s not a great finisher in the sense like, gets someone hurt and knows what he’s got to do to set it up. He rushes sometimes, but I believe I’m one of the biggest punchers in the division. Not only that, I can set it up and I’m calculated.”

Leigh, how does it play out?

“I believe he’s going to make the same mistakes he makes and do the same things he always does. I know that I’m going to be dominant the majority of the fight. I’m going to beat him up at times as well. I’m here to win and he’s here to win as well. I know what I need to do to win and I’m confident of doing it.”

Do you remind each other of yourselves?

“He’s a family man. He’s like a Leeds version of me. I’ve said it before, a Leeds version of me who doesn’t box as well as me or punch as hard as me, or has a team that’s in the Premier League. Apart from that, we’re bang on the same. I look and him and familiarise myself with how he conducts himself. A lot of people that know him, mutual friends, say he’s a great guy. It’s irrelevant on fight night, I’m coming to win. After yeah, we’ll have a drink.”

Josh Warrington:

When did Leigh go onto your radar?

“When I first started coming through I think Leigh was probably around the same level that I was at the time. We were probably looking for British Title fights, domestic title fights. I think at the time he’d taken to Twitter, mentioned my name a few times. I thought our paths might have crossed earlier to be honest with you. Recent times – the last 12 to 18 months I’d say.”

Josh is this one that you wanted as well?

“Yeah, it’s natural. Boxing has been booming in this country, in the UK shows. Big fights have been made, no bigger than the domestic rivalry. I’ve had a fair few of them over recent years. Selby, Frampton, Kid Galahad – everyone loves a domestic rivalry. To be fair I’ve been part of Leigh’s success in some kind of way, because if I’d have got through Lara behind closed doors then Leigh would never have got that chance against Can Xu. I’d have boxed Can Xu, may have gone to America – I might be retired by now! Things happen, and he’s faced one of my former opponents who I didn’t manage to get a win over – he has. So I feel like I’ve been part of his journey.”

Do you question whether or not you’ve still got what it takes to compete at the very top level Josh? It is one win in your last four.

“If I listened to the critics I would never have got to the level that I’ve achieved now. I started off slow in my last one, and that’s it – I’ve seen better days. It were me who finished on top at the end. I still feel like I’m in my prime. I really do. I’m feeling top of my game right now.”

What kind of atmosphere do you expect it to be?

“It’s going to be a hell of an atmosphere in the city, never mind the arena. I think Sheffield are playing Huddersfield, so there’s another Yorkshire side in the city. It’s going to be a great night. These are the fights I fu***ng live for. These give me a semi on! It’s good to be part of. When you’re in there and you’re throwing the shots – you have to pause a minute and think, ‘this is living the dream’ – I can’t wait to be in there.”

Do you remind each other of yourselves?

“Leigh will go alongside people on my phonebook like Carl Frampton. I respected Carl before the fight. We had a fight of the year. People want to see us tearing each other out. But we’re old school fighters and real fans will know what we’re capable of bringing to the table. It’s not our style to go to press conference and start screaming and shouting and slagging each other off. It’s mutual respect. We go to the gym, we train hard and we go home to our families. When it’s time to turn it on it’s time to turn it on. Once the business is done, we shake hands.”

Two tribes are ready for war as Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington traded verbal blows ahead of their WBA Featherweight World Title showdown in Sheffield on Saturday October 7 – live worldwide on DAZN.

The pair embarked on a 100-mile round trip to promote their blockbuster domestic bout, starting with a press conference in challenger Warrington’s hometown Leeds before a photo pit stop at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena in Sheffield and then culminating with a Q&A in front of champion Wood’s fans in his beloved city of Nottingham.

For videos and interviews from today, go to Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel and on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Leigh Wood:

“In the Lara rematch I felt sharp in between my ears and physically. I feel those fights, with tiny little breaks while still training, has put me in a good position.

“I’ve got my girls with me and I’m taking them on training camp with me tomorrow as well. I’ve got my boxer and parenting head on.

“Obviously I wanted this fight to happen at the City Ground. That was my dream – and still is. That being said, we are meeting halfway in Sheffield, at the Utilita Arena, and it is going to make for an unbelievable atmosphere with a 50/50 split down the arena.

“I’ve done that before, of course, when I fought Michael Conlan. The walkouts then were something special and, of course, this time we’ve both got even bigger followings, in a bigger arena and we have BOTH of our football clubs behind us too. I can’t wait to soak up the atmosphere. I know it will be quite hostile with both sets of fans battling it out vocally, but it should make for a great night. 

“I don’t take confidence from knowing Lara beat Josh and that I beat Lara. I take confidence in the fact that I know I’m the better fighter. It has taken me so long for me to prove this and I’ve waited a long time for this fight to happen.

“I’ve been goading Josh for years, even sending him videos on Twitter when I was in ’No Man’s Land’ and not getting big fights or really getting a look in. I was in a bad place and didn’t have a promoter. Now we’ve come full circle, where I’m the reigning champion and defending against Josh. It’s quite unbelievable.”

Josh Warrington:

“No-one ever thought I’d win a Commonwealth Title, let alone be a two-time World Champion,

“So why can’t I dream more? Why can’t I dream to be a unified champion? To become a two-weight champion or treat my fans to a Las Vegas fight week?

“There’s mutual respect, We don’t have to be shouting and screaming or chucking tables at each other to have a barnstormer of a fight.

“I went into the Lopez fight after jaw surgery and I was just too worried about it getting whacked.

“I finished well on top but it is one that will haunt me for ever.”

Tickets for Wood vs. Warrington are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300 and £400 (VIP).Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from 10am on Thursday August 3. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Utilita Arena Sheffield(utilitaarenasheffield.co.uk) from 10am on Friday August 4.

Leigh Wood will defend his WBA Featherweight World Title against Josh Warrington in a huge domestic clash on neutral ground at the Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday October 7^th, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

Nottingham favourite Wood (27-3, 16 KOs) produced a 12-round masterclass against Mexico’s hard-hitting dangerman Mauricio Lara to reclaim his WBA 126lbs crown last time out in May at Manchester’s AO Arena to become Britain’s latest two-time World Champion. 

‘Leigh-thal’ lost his World Title after being stopped in the seventh round by knockout artist ‘Bronco’ at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham earlier this year, but the 34-year-old Gedling warrior showed his courage by evoking an immediate rematch.

Lara had no answer to Wood’s superior skillset on the night, with the Ben Davison-trained fighter executing a brilliant disciplined display that saw him collect a landslide points win with scores in his favour of 118-109 x 2 and 116-111.

Leeds hero Warrington (31-2-1, 8 KOs) is aiming to become a three-time Featherweight World Champion after surrendering his IBF belt to Mexico’s Luis Alberto Lopez following a close points loss at the First Direct Arena last December – his first defeat in his home city. 

‘The Leeds Warrior’ regained the IBF strap when he stopped Kiko Martinez in his Leeds fortress in March 2022, flooring the Spaniard in the opening round before ending matters in the seventh round to punctuate a blistering performance in front of his adoring fans.

The former two-time IBF king, who has been out of action since his loss to Lopez, is eager to return to the top of the division and knows that a win over his British rival will put him in pole position for a unification rematch with Lopez – who recently KO’d Michael Conlan in five rounds. 

“I’m extremely excited for October 7,” said Wood. “In terms of the followings we’ve got, the football clubs and the cities, this is arguably the biggest British rivalry in the sport. For me, it doesn’t really get any bigger. Our styles will gel and that should make for a very exciting and entertaining fight. It should go down in British history.

“Josh has some great wins on his record and is obviously a two-time World Champion, but this is a fight that he cannot lose. He’s never really been in a boring fight – but neither have I. This fight will be all-action and the fans should be in for a great night.

“I know it will be quite hostile with both sets of fans battling it out vocally, but it should make for a great night. This is one that I need to win, so I can look back on with pride and soak up all the good memories. This is a must-win, for sure.”
 
“This is a big fight,” said Warrington. “It doesn’t get much better than a domestic dust up for a World Title! I’m obsessed in becoming a three-weight World Champion, to get back on top and that is going to show on the night. I will bring an army of fans to Sheffield and the atmosphere will be special. Leigh has had a good run and put some good wins together but I just don’t believe he can live with me. I hope he thinks my best days are behind me, on October 7 he’ll find out. AND THE NEW!”

“This is a huge all-British World Title clash between two of the best Featherweights on the planet,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Nottingham hero Leigh Wood defends his WBA Featherweight crown against ‘The Leeds Warrior’ Josh Warrington after brilliantly reclaiming it against Maurcio Lara in May. It doesn’t get much bigger than this! Both men will be backed by their fanatical supporters for what will be one of the best ever atmospheres at a boxing event. 

“Josh Warrington is desperate to be crowned a three-time World Champion after losing his IBF belt last December. Leigh Wood has plans to unify the 126lbs and will give everything he has to keep hold of his belt. Expect fireworks from the opening bell as these two all-action warriors go head to head in a Battle of Britain. Catch it live around the world on DAZN!””A massive fight to add to our autumn schedule,” said Joseph?Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “Leigh wood vs. Josh Warrington for the WBA Featherweight World Title is an absolute barnstormer – a domestic scrap between two brilliant, aggressive fighters that will deliver from the first bell. Tune in live and exclusive October 7 only on DAZN.”

Tickets for Wood vs. Warrington are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300 and £400 (VIP).

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from 10am on Thursday August 3. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Utilita Arena Sheffield(utilitaarenasheffield.co.uk) from 10am on Friday August 4.

Leigh Wood reclaimed the WBA Featherweight World Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Mauricio Lara at the AO Arena in Manchester, England.

Lara, who was the champion, lot the belt on the scales in Friday as 3.8 lbs of over the featherweight limit. This was a rematch of a fight that took place on February 18th when Lara knocked out Wood in the seventh round.

In round two, Wood put Lara on the canvas with a right uppercut. Wood suffered a cut over his left eye in round four.

Wood landed 150 of 429 punches; Lara was 76 of 314.

Wood, 125.9 lbs of Nottingham, ENG won by scores of 118-109 twice and 116-111 and is now 27-3. Lara, 129.8 lbs of Mexico City is 26-3-1.

Former world title challenger Jack Catterall won a 10-round unanimous decision over Darragh Foley in a junior welterweight contest.

In round seven, Catterall dropped Foley with a hard right hook. Early in round nine, it was another right that put Foley on the deck.

Catterall landed 170 of 374 punches; Foley was 81 of 414.

Catterall, 139.9 lbs of Chorley, IRE won by scores of 99-88, 98-89 and 97-90 and is now 27-1. Foley, 22-4-1 of Bondi, AUT is 22-5-1.

Terri Harper defended her WBA Super Welterweight World Title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Ivana Habazin.

Harper landed 75 of 209 punches; Habazin was 70 of 363.

Harper, 150.3 lbs of Denaby Main, ENG won by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 twice and is now 14-1-1. Habazin, 152.4 lbs of Zlatar, CRO is 21-5.

Aqib Fiaz barely remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Costin Ion in a super featherweight bout.

In round six, Ion dropped Fiaz with a hard left hand.

Fiaz landed 92 of 260 punches; Ion was was 86 of 313.

Fiaz, 132.1 lbs of Oldham, ENG won by a 76-75 score and is now 12-0. Ion, Marvella, SPA is 10-4-2.

Dany Ball stopped Jami Robinson at the end of round eight of their scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

In round two, Ball dropped Robinson with a short right on the inside. Ball jumped on Robinson and hit him with a barrage of punches that caused a bloody nose.

The bout was stopped in Robinson’s corner following the eighth round.

Ball, 146.1 lbs of Kingswinford, ENG is now 13-1-1 with six knockouts. Robinson, 146.8 lbs of Bolsaver, ENG is 15-6-2.

William Crolla made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Joe Hardy in a super welterweight bout.

In round three, Hardy landed a right hand that put Crolla on the canvas. In round four, Hardy’s nose was bloodied.

Crolla, 156.6 lbs of Manchester, ENG is the brother of former lightweight champion Anthony Crolla and is now 1-0. Hardy, 158.3 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 2-10.

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a fifth round stoppage over Michal Bulik in a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

In round five, Hatton landed a hard right that was followed by a left that wobbled Bulik across the ring, and the bout was stopped at 38 seconds.

Hatton, 141.3 lbs of Hyde, ENG is 12-0 with five knockouts. Bulik, 138.6 lbs of Oplae, POL is 6-3.

Aaron Bowen took a six-round decision from Aljaz Venko in a middleweight bout.

Bowen, 163.6 lbs of Coventry, ENG won by a 60-55 score and is now 2-0. Venko, 161.1 lbs of Slovenska Bistrica, SLO is 5-4-1.

6 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
AARON BOWEN 163.6 lbs v ALJAZ VENKO 161.1 lbs
(Coventry, England)               (Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenia)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Super-Lightweight contest
CAMPBELL HATTON 141.9 lbs v MICHAL BULIK 138.6 lbs
(Hyde, England)                             (Opale, Poland)

followed by

4 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
WILLIAM CROLLA156.6 lbsv JOE HARDY 158.3 lbs
(Manchester, England)              (Leeds, England)

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

followed by

10 x 3 mins vacant English Welterweight Title
DANNY BALL 146.1 lbs v JAMIE ROBINSON 146.8 lbs
(Kingswinford, England)  (Bolsover, England)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Super-Featherweight contest
AQIB FIAZ 132.1 lbsv COSTIN ION 132.2 lbs
(Oldham, England)      (Marbella, Spain)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBA Super-Welterweight World Title
TERRI HARPER150.3 lbsv IVANA HABAZIN 152.4 lbs
(Denaby Main, England)      (Zlatar, Croatia)

followed by

10 x 3 mins vacant WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Title
JACK CATTERALL139.9 lbsv DARRAGH FOLEY 139.5 lbs
(Chorley, Ireland)                       (Bondi, Australia)  

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Featherweight World Title
MAURICIO LARA 129.8 lbsv LEIGH WOOD 125.9 lbs
(Mexico City, Mexico)             (Nottingham, England)  

Mauricio Lara lost the World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight belt after failing to make weight on Friday. However, the Mexican will step into the ring to face Leigh Wood this Saturday but only the Brit will have the option to win the crown.

As the WBA rules dictate in their section “rules about the official weigh-in”, number 6 “If the champion does not make the limit weight of the division after the two (2) additional hours granted, he/she will lose the title. If the challenger makes the weight and wins the bout, he shall be declared champion. If the champion who did not make the weight is the winner of the bout, the title will be declared vacant.”

In this case, Lara weighed in at 129.8 lbs on the scales, considerably above the 126 weight regulations. Wood weighed in at 125.9 lbs and will be the only one with the option to fight for the championship. 

Lara and Wood fought in February of this year and the bout ended with a great knockout by the former. Now they will step into the ring for a rematch that promises to be full of excitement.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Welcome to Manchester ahead of a huge night of World Championship boxing this Saturday at Manchester Arena, live and exclusive in DAZN. The rematch for the WBA Featherweight Championship of the World between the champion Mauricio Lara and now the challenger Leigh Wood. We saw a tremendous fight earlier this year in Nottingham full on drama. Leigh Wood winning that fight, to then get stopped and to see Mauricio Lara become World Champion. We sat in the office and we talked about what was next – we talked about maybe waiting. There was no waiting from Leigh Wood. He believed he can win this fight. He wanted the immediate rematch and he’s got it, this time in Manchester with his fans travelling from Nottingham.”

Mauricio Lara:

“First and foremost I want to say hi to everyone. As you say, last time was a calm performance but I’m really confident in my training camp and what we have done and I want to almost back-up and cement that victory, and I want to do it in quicker fashion. I’ll be looking for that knockout from the very first round. Big things are to come but first I have to, as I have said, cement that victory. Leigh Wood isn’t just any boxer, it will be a difficult fight but it is about continuing and cementing that victory and making history in this sport.”

Alejandro Brito:

“First and foremost, we have to thank you for the opportunity. This is Mauricio’s fourth time in this country. On his third time he managed to win that World Title on a fantastic night. It was a dream that he had for a long time. I said it the first time we had the opportunity, that we would give the opportunity back to Leigh Wood if we managed to win, and it’s great that we can go on to have another great fight here. The last one was a war but we are totally focused and believing in Mauricio’s possibility in creating a legacy in the sport.”

Leigh Wood:

“There was never even a thought in my mind that anything different was going to happen. I know you tried to persuade me otherwise. It was just so frustrating how the fight finished. Like you say, it is a fast turnaround, but it is one that benefits me. If you said to me when I won the World Title, ‘right, in 13 weeks’ time you’re back out, you need to get back in the gym’, I’d have been like, ‘woah Eddie come on, let me celebrate’. That’s why I believe it is one that favours me. I was straight back in training, I had a little time with my kids. I’m ready to get this belt back and look good doing it. No doubts at all, that’s not me saying it’s going to be an easy fight, because it could be far from an easy fight, but I’m prepared for anything that he brings. The first time round was hard because we didn’t have his style against my style to look at, now we’ve got that information and we know what he does when I do certain things. I’ve been preparing for him for nearly a year in September. I know him inside out, I’m just going to go out there and prove that I’m the better fighter. It’s a must-win fight; there’s a lot of pressure. I love it, I thrive on it. Whatever is takes on Saturday night I’m coming away with a win. This is what gets me up for it, I can’t lose. I can’t afford to lose. That could be the end of the road for me. It’s a long road to come back from. That’s why I’m not thinking about losing, I’ve done everything I can do to win. I’m confident in winning. I know what I need to do to win. I know what I can’t afford to do.”

Ben Davison, trainer of Wood:

“It was a scenario and a situation where there was no guarantees to the outcome. I can’t sit here and say that the fight wouldn’t have carried on going and Leigh wouldn’t have been victorious, and I can’t say vice-versa. It was a decision that I made in the moment, but with the understanding that we have this opportunity here. Leigh had this rematch clause. He’s got the opportunity to get his title back and I believe that he will do so. Leigh is forever in the gym, looks after himself, he doesn’t balloon up in between fights, he’s very disciplined in his life and his approach. It’s a career for him and a full-time job for him. He’s so disciplined when it comes to approaching fights and going into game plans that to actually take him away from a certain style match-up, to then bring him back to it would have actually been more difficult than it will be to go into a quick turnaround. I think he (Lara) was actually more respectful of Leigh’s power than we anticipated. He was a lot less reckless in the fight than we had anticipated being honest. I think the fact that he did eventually get the shot that he was looking for, the fight might play out a little bit more like the way we anticipated the first one to. Some adjustments, and I’m sure Mauricio and his team will have some adjustments. Leigh knows what he has to do and we are confident in the execution of that game plan.”

Alfie Sharman, Vice President Marketing – DAZN:

“I found myself on Sunday morning thinking, ‘how can you better Katie Taylor’s homecoming in Dublin in an amazing fight?’. Congratulations Chantelle. The answer was quick, it is back here in Manchester, an amazing fight city with two absolute warriors ready to put it on the line. We’ve had an incredible few weeks on DAZN with top tier fighters on both sides of the Atlantic fighting on our platform, and it doesn’t stop there. We’ve got plenty of headline fights coming up – Claressa Shields, Jaime Munguia, Vergil Ortiz Jr, Dalton Smith, Regis Prograis and Edgar Berlanga to name a few. It’s a really great time for us. Looking to Saturday, everyone in here saw the first fight. In my opinion predictions go out of the window for this one on Saturday. It’s a completely new fight, a new beast. Both men are in great shape and are ready to go. Leigh is very much looking to get that belt back and Mauricio looks like he’s not willing to let it go. We wish them both the best of luck and make sure you tune in on Saturday live on DAZN.”

Tickets for Mauricio Lara’s WBA Featherweight World Title rematch with Leigh Wood at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday May 27, shown live worldwide on DAZN, will go on sale this week.

Mexico’s Lara (26-2-1, 19 KOs) captured the WBA World Title by knocking Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) down in the seventh round with a stunning left hook at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham. The former champion rose to his feet but Ben Davison threw in the towel to save his fighter from further damage. 

‘Leigh-thal’, who was ahead on all three judges scorecards at the time of the stoppage, gets an immediate shot at redemption against ‘Bronco’ – one of the most feared punchers in world boxing – at the top of a stacked card that features former World Title challenger Jack Catterall (26-1, 13 KOs) making his Matchroom debut against Darragh Foley (22-4-1, 10 KOs) and Danny Ball (12-1-1, 5 KOs) taking on Anthony Tomlinson (15-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant English Welterweight Title, with more fights to be announced soon. 

Tickets for Lara vs. Wood 2 are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £350 (VIP).

Tickets are available via the AO Arena venue presale from midday on Wednesday April 12.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Thursday April 13. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchase via Stage Front and ao-arena.com from midday on Friday April 14.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“The WBA World Featherweight Title. The Super WBA World Featherweight Title. Leigh Wood against Mauricio Lara this Saturday live on DAZN around the world from the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham. What a fight we have here. Someone asked me earlier, what gives me a big fight feeling? Driving up the M1 excited, thinking about what might happen on Saturday night. Thinking about the atmosphere, thinking about the great nights we’ve experienced in this arena. Carl Froch beating Lucian Bute, Leigh Wood beating Michael Conlan. Honestly on Saturday night I think we’re going to get the best we’ve ever seen in this city. This is a tremendous fight to bring to the UK and we’re so proud of Leigh Wood the champion for accepting this challenge as the champion. The first time you’ve seen an underdog in his home city take a voluntary defence. Him and his trainer Ben Davison they see something, they see an opportunity to become the daddy of the division on Saturday night. For me this is to determine the number one fighter in the 126lbs division. There’s going to be drama, there’s going to be excitement and there’s going to be plenty of violence. We cannot wait.”

Leigh Wood – Gedling, England – 26-2, 16 KOs – defending his WBA Featherweight World Title against Mauricio Lara:

“It has been a long journey to get here. I was that little kid trying to get a slot of the Froch undercards. I’ve come a long way since then. There’s nothing that’s going to beat me on Saturday night, nothing at all. There’s nothing that he can bring that I’m not prepared for. He’s ready for war but I’m ready for a smart tactical knockout. I think the underdog mentality going into a fight does help a little bit but it’s more about having that danger. With the Can Xu fight it was punches and output. There’s a bit of that fear factor to get me up for the fight. The Conlan fight, he was a southpaw, bearing in mind before then I’d only boxed one in my career. He’s very skilful and has a massive amateur pedigree. So there was that factor as well. This fight it’s a new approach but a similar kind of thing. We’ve got the fear factor – he can punch and he’s dangerous. Whichever way this fight goes I’m prepared for it. The underdog mentality, not only do I strive on but I kind of need it. It’s going to be special. It’s going to be a wolf pit. It’s going to be a cauldron, very hostile. Massive thank you to everyone from Nottingham. It’s going to be a great atmosphere so thanks for getting behind me. Every time I get in the ring I put it all on the line, every single drop of me is going into this fight – whatever I have to do. Whatever it takes, if I have to pick myself up I’ll pick myself up. I’ve shown in my last fight I’m resilient, I can punch, I’m fit and I’m headstrong which is the most important thing in boxing. That mental capacity of not deciding to give up.”

Ben Davison, trainer of Leigh Wood:

“Styles make fights, more than levels. Leigh Wood has been written off numerous times throughout his career. When he lost for the British Title early on, when he lost in the Golden Contract, when he was boxing Can Xu, when he was boxing Michael Conlan. Every time he’s come back better and stronger and risen to the challenge. That’s when you see the best of Leigh Wood. You won’t see the best of Leigh in a fight that he’s the heavy favourite in. Mauricio Lara is a very brave fighter and a very dangerous fighter. In the mist of chaos lies opportunity and I believe that you can’t be as reckless as he is against a puncher like Leigh Wood. There is no doubt in my mind who the bigger puncher is. That’s not how it always plays out in a fight. Leigh is very well drilled and well prepared. He knows exactly what he needs to do and will have the intelligence and the IQ to create the opportunities and scenarios that favour him in the fight for him to execute what he needs to execute to end the fight. Fear is not anything to do with Leigh’s mindset going into this fight. We’re very confident, Leigh’s very confident. If anything, Mauricio Lara needs to be worrying and fearful of Leigh Wood because he’ll be the one that comes out victorious and he’s the dangerman in the fight.”

Mauricio Lara – Mexico City, Mexico – 25-2-1, 18 KOs – challenging Leigh Wood for his WBA Featherweight World Title:

“Hello to everyone here, I hope you’re all well. I’m feeling really happy. When opportunities come around I take them with both hands and I’m convinced that I will win. I’m not disrespecting him in anyway but I just know the capability of ‘Bronco’ Lara who will go on to win the World Title. I’ve prepared better than ever and I’ve prepared not for a fight, but for a war and I’m prepared to leave absolutely everything in there. I’ve prepared as well as I possibly can. I feel like this is almost my second home. This will definitely not go to the scorecards I can tell you that. I feel like I’ve been supported on the social media platforms and I’m going to give absolutely everything on Saturday.”

Alejandro Brito, manager of Mauricio Lara:

“First and foremost, I want to say thank you to Eddie for the opportunity. We also have to thank Leigh Wood’s team for this opportunity. He’s now just two days away from becoming World Champion. It has been a dream that he has had for a long time, we hoped that he’d do it against Josh Warrington, unfortunately that fight wasn’t for a World Title in the end. I’m totally convinced now that through all the hard work and suffering he has gone through that he’s going to become World Champion on Saturday night. I met Mauricio a little over six years ago and he always said it was a dream to become World Champion. He always wanted his name to be recognised in Mexico and around the world and now he’s just two days away from this. We’re really confident and really motivated, not just us but every back home in Mexico. They believe he will become World Champion.”

Dalton Smith – Sheffield, England – 13-0, 10 KOs – making the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington:

“I don’t overlook anybody and I know Billy is coming with big intentions. I’ve heard it in my previous fights with people thinking I’m overlooking opponents. Believe me, I don’t do that. I just focus on the job in front of me and that’s the fight on Saturday night. I’ve got to turn up, be 100% and get the job done in style. We’re probably going to see the very best version of Billy. It’s a big opportunity for him and he’s coming to try and upset the odds. I’m not going to let that happen. I’m fully focused. I’ve had a good camp. I just keep on improving and improving with every fight. I feel like I’m turning into a good solid young man now. I just can’t wait to show you all on Saturday night. It’s going to be unbelievable and the support for me is getting bigger and bigger. I was here for my debut on Leigh’s undercard back in 2019. It’s a great sporting city and they always come out in their numbers. I can’t wait to be on that ramp walking down. I’m sure the atmosphere is going to be great.”

Billy Allington – Egham, England – 10-1-4 – challenging Dalton Smith for his British Super-Lightweight Title:

“Firstly I want to say thank you. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be here. I’ve got a lot of people that want to see me do well and that’s a blessing in itself. I’m very well prepared. I’ve earnt my stripes by becoming English Champion, Southern Area Champion on the small hall shows. I’m excited to be here and challenge myself to be the best that I can be. I’ve got a great team and I’m very grateful for that as well. The magnitude of this event is very exciting. If you’d have asked me when I was a 13-year-old boy if I’d make it to where I am now I’d have probably said, ‘I don’t know’. I’m ready to take my opportunity on Saturday with both hands and become the new British Champion. It’s an honour to fight for the title and I’m more than capable of upsetting the odds here. I believe in myself, my team believe in me and this is why we’re here. We’re here for a reason. Dalton is a good fighter, I’m not going to say he isn’t, but as a champion we want to fight other champions and challenge ourselves to get the best out of ourselves. That’s how we grow as humans. I’ve got about 100 people coming up to watch me and that touches me as well. Let’s have a good night Saturday.”

Gary Cully – Naas, Ireland – 15-0, 9 KOs – fighting Wilfredo Flores for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Lightweight Title:

“I’ve been gaining a lot of momentum. I’m here and I’m back in Nottingham, it’s good vibes for me. I was here last year fighting Miguel Vazquez – 2022 was kind of my breakout year but I feel like I’ve been putting in performances like that over the past five years of my career. I’ve fought undefeated guys, I’ve had my step ups, I’ve fought my former World Champions and all of this. I believe it’s a big step up for Wilfredo Flores and he’s going to be out of his depth on Saturday night. Too good, too big and too strong. 2023 is my year. There’s lots of talk about going back to Ireland and fighting back at home. It’s been a dream of mine to fight back in Ireland ever since I was a kid so I’ve been using that as massive motivation for this camp and to push that little bit harder. There’s some big fights coming at the back end of 2023 for me if I get through Saturday night. I come to bring excitement and entertainment every time I fight. I just heard Chev Clarke say he doesn’t go in there to knock people out he goes in there to box, but I come in to take your head off and it’s going to be no different on Saturday night. No disrespect to Wilfredo Flores but I believe I’m on a different level and I’m coming in there to take his head off on Saturday night.”

Wilfredo Flores – Dunkirk, USA – 10-0-1, 5 KOs – fighting Gary Cully for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Lightweight Title:

“Thank you for the opportunity I’m very excited. Hopefully I can come away with the victory and come away with some fans in the UK. This is my opportunity to showcase myself and who I am to the world. I’m looking forward to it. This is an opportunity that comes with working hard. I have good work ethic and it’s embedded in me to continue to progress and showcase my hard work. I expect Gary to be well prepared and ready to go to war. I certainly am. This is a sport. We’re both very competitive fighters and I’m sure we’re going to steal the show this Saturday night.”

Cheavon Clarke – Gravesend, England – 4-0, 4 KOs – fighting Israel Duffus in a ten round International Cruiserweight contest:

“First and foremost I’d like to mention Dec Spellman. It’s really bad for him not being able to provide for his family doing something that he’s always done. I’ve got a tough opponent on Saturday and I’m looking forward to putting on a show. I don’t go out there trying to stop people. I go out there and I try to box. When the opportunities come I take them. If you guys think that’s exciting, I’ll just keep on doing what I’m doing. There’s plenty of good fights out there for me.”

Israel Duffus – San Miguelito, Panama – 20-8, 17 KOs – fighting Cheavon Clarke in a ten round International Cruiserweight contest:

“Thank you for the opportunity. I always try to keep in shape – you never know when the opportunity is going to come. This is one of those cases. Cheavon’s amateur career looks very impressive but he’s in the professional code now and it’s not the same. Amateur and professional are two different things. I also had the opportunity back in 2012 and 2008 in the Olympics. Now we’re in the professionals. I’m really happy for this.”

Gamal Yafai – Birmingham, England – 19-2, 11 KOs – fighting Diego Alberto Ruiz in a ten round International Super-Bantamweight contest:

“I’m looking forward to getting in there a doing the job. I’ve enjoyed the move to Jamie Moore’s gym, it has been good. I feel like I’ve got some structure now in my life. I’m looking forward to showing that on Saturday night. Get Saturday night sorted and I want to push towards the world level again.”

Aaron Bowen – Coventry, England – Professional Debut – fighting Mathieu Gomes in a six round International Middleweight contest:

“I’m looking forward to my professional debut. This is obviously where I want to be. I’ve got a big following and with big fights I think even more people can get behind me. I feel like my fights in the amateurs have given me great experience. This is a big stage and it’s a little bit different but the pressure that I experience boxing in the Commonwealth Games, boxing for GB travelling the world, I’ve sort of been there now so it’s given me that little stepping stone. This isn’t too far out of my comfort zone and at the end of the day it’s just a rig. I feel like it’s done me good. I come to fight from the first bell until the last. I will be looking for the knockout but I’ll get the job done first.”

Junaid Bostan – Rotherham, England – 4-0, 4 KOs – fighting Peter Kramer in an eight round International Super-Welterweight contest:

“It’s my first eight-rounder. Whether it goes eight rounds is a completely different thing. I’m looking to do a number of this guy and carry on progressing in my career. Funnily enough I wasn’t known as the biggest puncher in the amateurs, but now I’ve turned over I’m knocking everyone out. I’m not complaining. It isn’t deliberate but you don’t get paid for overtime so if you can get them out of there then why not. If you don’t ask you don’t get, so I’ve got to ask about getting on these big shows.”

Kieron Conway – Northampton, England – 18-3-1, 4 KOs – fighting Jorge Silva in an eight round International Super-Middleweight contest:

“It’s good to be on a card so early in the year. I need to put my foot on the gas and get my career back on track. I want to use this year to rebuild. I want to keep all of my fights here in the UK. I want to win a British Title, I don’t care who’s got that. I want to go and win that next and move back on to the world scene after that. I’ve beat high level opposition and I’ve been around high-level opposition. I’m just sick of being known as this nice guy in and out the ring, now I’m coming here to destroy and bring knockouts to the table.”

Sam Maxwell – Liverpool, England – 16-1, 11 KOs – fighting Shaun Cooper in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’ve got a job to do on Saturday. Get through that and let’s see what we can do after. Dalton Smith is a fight I’m interested in and that’s the fight I want. Touch wood we both come through on Saturday and we can get it on.”

Mauricio Lara has warned Leigh Wood that if he switches off during their WBA Featherweight World Title showdown this Saturday February 18 at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand), then “the fight will be over quickly”.

Mexico’s Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs) has waited patiently for his first World Title shot following his brilliant win over ‘The Leeds Warrior’ Josh Warrington back in February 2021 – a win that would have seen him crowned the new IBF 126lbs king if Warrington had not vacated his title a month prior to their behind closed doors clash.

‘Bronco’, who is the much younger man of the two aged 24, believes his 34-year-old opponent has a lot of miles on the clock following his breath-taking back and forth battle with Ireland’s Michael Conlan in March last year – the defending champion hasn’t fought since.

“It was a tough fight – we know that he’s damaged coming into this fight, but he’s coming to defend his title and that’s what I want,” said Lara. “I’m grateful to him for taking this fight. We know nobody wants to face me at 126lbs for a World Title but this one will happen, and we know what we are capable of doing.

“We know it’s a big fight. We know it’s the acid test. We know Leigh Wood is a great champion but I have big aspirations and a great desire to become World Champion and as I’ve said, whatever it takes, I have to do it this time.

“We know he’s a great fighter but it’s going to be a really tough fight for him. We know how we’re preparing, we’ve caused an upset before in his country and it will be the same on February 18. Believe me, if he switches off, the fight will be over quickly. It won’t go beyond the fifth.”

Warrington will be keeping a close eye on Saturday’s X-rated clash, and has been touted to face the winner, despite losing his IBF Title to Luis Alberto Lopez last December. The 32-year-old Yorkshireman has picked Wood to beat Lara, but the big-hitting knockout artist isn’t bothered in the slightest.

“Well, what can someone who got knocked out in 9 rounds have to say? Who got his jaw fractured, his shoulder and elbow damaged. Chickens always criticise people but he knows ‘Bronco’ Lara is coming for him and I will destroy him.”

Wood vs. Lara headlines Matchroom’s first show of the year in the UK, Sheffield star Dalton Smith (13-0, 10 KOs) makes the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington (10-1-4), Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs) takes on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title, Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) fights late replacement Israel Duffus (20-8, 17 KOs), former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner, popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds, Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion Sam Maxwell (16-1, 11 KOs) faces Shaun Cooper (13-4) over six rounds and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Aaron Bowen makes his professional debut at Middleweight against Mathieu Gomes (5-4, 5 KOs).

Limited remaining tickets for Wood vs. Lara can be purchased via Stage Front.

Leigh Wood has promised to meet Mauricio Lara “in the middle of the ring” and has boldly predicted that their highly anticipated WBA Featherweight World Title clash at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham this Saturday, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand), won’t reach the halfway point.

Nottingham’s ‘Leigh-thal’ (26-2, 16 KOs) returns to the scene of his stunning 12^th round knockout win over Ireland’s Michael Conlan last March to put his WBA crown on the line for the second time against a man few have opted to face – Mexico City’s dangerous knockout artist Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs).

‘Bronco’ arrives on these shores for the third time with a fearsome reputation, having famously wiped-out former IBF Featherweight World Champion Josh Warrington in nine rounds in a sensational upset behind closed doors in February 2021, ending the Leeds fighter’s unbeaten record.

Wood, who picked up multiple Fight of the Year awards for his sensational scrap with Conlan, has accused Lara of making things personal between them following his injury jibes, and the 34-year-old believes he can expose his opponent’s weaknesses on the biggest stage of all. 

“From the outside looking in he looks very dangerous,” admitted Wood. “He got that devastating win over Josh Warrington. There’s a lot of things he does well and he is dangerous, but in the same hand there’s a lot of things that he does very poorly. You can’t get away with that at this level with the right fighter.

“He doesn’t have to come looking for me, I’m going to be right in front of him. I’ll meet him in the middle of the ring. When he walks into the ring he’s going to be met with a very hostile crowd. No one is going to walk into Nottingham and walk through me – it’s not going to happen. I can’t see it reaching the halfway point, and I will win by knockout.

“There was never going to be another fight. It was always going to be Mauricio Lara next. He’s said a few things which made it quite personal. He said that I faked my injury and he said that all the English are running away scared.”

Victory on Saturday potentially sets up a dream World Title defence for Gedling’s Wood at the City Ground – home to his beloved Nottingham Forest Football Club. The chance to become the first ever fighter to headline at the famous old stadium gives Wood all of the extra motivation he needs.

“Over the years things change, you don’t always want what you wanted when you started. Some things do stay the same. It was winning the British Title, boxing for and hopefully winning a World Title and the third thing is to fight at the City Ground. Now I’ve just got one more thing to do – win this fight and I believe it’s done.

“The people down at the ground have really got behind me my past few fights. It’s going to be a special atmosphere this fight. It’s going to be even better. Last time it was split with the Nottingham lot and the Irish – this time it’s predominantly going to be the Nottingham fans. They’ll be singing and making lots of noise – it’s going to be lifting.”

Wood vs. Lara headlines Matchroom’s first show of the year in the UK, Sheffield star Dalton Smith (13-0, 10 KOs) makes the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington (10-1-4), Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs) takes on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title, Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) fights late replacement Israel Duffus (20-8, 17 KOs), former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner, popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds, Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion Sam Maxwell (16-1, 11 KOs) faces Shaun Cooper (13-4) over six rounds and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Aaron Bowen makes his professional debut at Middleweight against Mathieu Gomes (5-4, 5 KOs).

Limited remaining tickets for Wood vs. Lara can be purchased via Stage Front.

Dalton Smith will make the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington on the undercard of Leigh Wood’s highly anticipated WBA Featherweight World Title showdown with avoided Mexican Mauricio Lara at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday February 18, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

The Sheffield star (13-0, 10 KOs) recently put pen to paper on a new multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn following a stellar 2022 that saw the 25-year-old remain undefeated, and ‘Thunder’ is set to kick off an even busier year against Surrey’s former English Champion Allington (10-1-4) as he looks to win the prestigious British Title outright before moving onto the European scene. 

Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs), who also recently extended his promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, returns to the scene of his impressive stoppage triumph over former World Champion Miguel Vazquez in March last year to take on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title ahead of what promises to be a huge year for the ‘The Diva’.

Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) has ended all four of his fights inside the distance since turning pro last February, including a brutal second round stoppage win over Jose Gregorio Ulrich last time out caused by a perfectly timed uppercut, and the former Team GB Olympian steps up next month in an Eliminator for the English Cruiserweight Title against Scunthorpe’s Dec Spelman (19-6, 9 KOs).

Former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) returned to winning ways by stopping Sean Cairns in four rounds last June after losing his EBU Title to Jason Cunningham in May 2021, and the 31-year-old from Birmingham begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs) as he aims to get back to title action later in the year. 

Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight following his points loss to Austin Williams on the Canelo vs. Golovkin 3 undercard last September, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner after inking a deal with Eddie Hearn last September and popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds. 

Tickets for Wood vs. Lara are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP)

Matchroom Fight Pass members can purchase tickets NOW.  Priority ticket info has been emailed directly to eligible members.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from midday tomorrow (Thursday January 12).

Matchroom Boxing’s 2023 schedule in the UK is set to begin with a bang at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday February 18 as hometown hero Leigh Wood puts his WBA Featherweight World Title on the line against big-punching Mexican Mauricio Lara, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

‘Leigh-thal’ (26-2 KOs) memorably stopped Michael Conlan in the 12^th and final round of his epic first defence of the WBA 126lbs title back in March 2022, knocking the Irishman out of the ring in brutal fashion to end their Fight of the Year stunner.

The Forest-mad Featherweight was heavily dropped in the opening round and looked to be heading towards his third loss in the pros before brilliantly fighting back to earn a brilliant win that will be talked about for many years to come.

Wood is now recognised as the World Boxing Associations only Champion at Featherweight after former ‘Super Champion’ Leo Santa Cruz relinquished his title on Monday December 12, and the 34-year-old wants to waste no time in adding more World Titles to his collection in 2023.

‘Bronco’ (25-2-1, 18 KOs) has been waiting patiently for his shot at Wood after their eagerly anticipated September 24 fight was postponed following a torn bicep suffered by Wood in sparring, but the Featherweight KO artist finally gets his dream World Title opportunity next month. 

Lara is well-known on UK shores after he floored and ruthlessly finished Josh Warrington in a sensational upset behind closed doors at The SSE Arena, Wembley in February 2021, ending the IBF Featherweight World Champion’s unbeaten record.

He rematched Warrington in front of a sold-out Headingley Stadium in Leeds seven months later, but a nasty cut over the left eye of the Mexican in round two caused by an accidental clash of heads resulted in the contest ending in a technical draw.

The power-punching 24-year-old blitzed Emilio Sanchez in three rounds in March 2022 on the undercard of Roman Gonzalez vs. Julio Cesar Martinez before stopping Jose Sanmartin in three in another destructive show of brute force to put the 126lbs division on notice.

“Mauricio Lara has made things personal between us with the disrespect he showed me regarding my injury and my country,” said Wood. “I’m going to show him what I’m all about. See you on February 18 Nottingham – And Still!”

“I have been waiting for this opportunity for 2 years and I am not going to waste it,” said Lara. “In February 2021 I beat Warrington in England, now in 2023 I will do the same with Wood. The WBA 126lbs World Title goes to Mexico, that I promised to my daughter, my family, my team and to my whole country. Your time has come Leigh Wood, no “injury” can save you now from this.”

“Quite simply this is a fight that you have to watch through your fingers,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “After the drama of the Conlan fight last March, Leigh Wood is about to bring another night of drama to the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham against the brutal, fearless and much avoided Mauricio Lara. This fight leads Leigh to the City Ground in the summer but first get ready for an epic main event and all action card as we gear up for another FOTY contender in Nottingham on February 18.”

“What a fight this is to kick off the Matchroom UK schedule in 2023,” said Joe Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. “Both Wood and Lara are incapable of being involved in anything other than brutal, toe to toe, edge of your seat fights and I for one cannot wait for February 18. Watch this barnstormer live and exclusive on DAZN.”

Tickets for Wood vs. Lara are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP)

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Wednesday January 11. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from midday on Thursday January 12.