BBC Radio 5 Live will see out a great summer of sport with a flurry of top-flight fight nights, after signing an exclusive deal with Matchroom Boxing.

It all kicked off at the weekend with Saturday’s Fight Camp opener at the stunning Matchroom HQ in Brentwood, Essex, which was headlined by Xu Can’s WBA Featherweight World Title defence against Leigh Wood.

Nottingham boxer Wood came out on top with a sensational 12th-round stoppage of China’s Xu Can to become his city’s second ever World Champion.

Coming up this weekend, Saturday August 7, it’s the mouth-watering vacant IBF World Featherweight Title clash between old rivals Kid Galahad and Jazza Dickens. On Saturday August 14 Joshua Buatsi will go up against Ricards Bolotniks, for the WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title. Then on Saturday September 4 Josh Warrington faces Mexico’s Mauricio Lara in a must-win rematch at Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds. 

Sheffield’s Galahad (21-1, 16 KOs) and Liverpool’s Dickens (30-3, 11 KOs) fought for domestic honours at Super-Bantamweight back in 2013, with Galahad winning. But Dickens insists that encounter will have no bearing on this weekend’s fight, coverage gets underway on BBC Radio 5 Live at 10:30pm on Saturday night.

The bill will also see an explosive English Heavyweight Title battle between Fabio Wardley (11-0, 10 KOs) and Nick Webb (17-2, 13 KOs). While the ‘Blonde Bomber’ Ebaine Bridges (5-1, 2 KOs) faces up against Swindon’s ‘Lady Luck’ Bec Connolly (3-9, 0 KOs) 

On August 14 it’s a huge night for former Olympic bronze medallist Buatsi (14-0, 12 KOs) as he goes into battle against the experienced Latvian Bolotniks (18-5, 8 KOs). The night will also see the classy young American Raymond Ford (8-0-1, 4 KOs) take on the more experienced Reece Bellotti (14-4, 12 KOs).

On Saturday September 4 Leeds legend Warrington (30-1, 7 KOs) will attempt to avenge his one and only defeat with a rematch against Lara (22-2, 15 KOs). Ireland’s Katie Taylor (18-0, 6 KOs) will face Texan Jennifer Han (18-3-1, 1 KO).

Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, said: “I am delighted that BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds will be covering these three massive nights of action as we close out a huge summer of boxing. The all-British clash for the IBF Featherweight World Title between Kid Galahad and Jazza Dickens is set to be a cracker at the top of Fight Camp Week 2 this weekend and rising Light-Heavyweight start Joshua Buatsi takes a huge step up when he takes on Ricards Bolotniks at the top of Week 3. Then it’s Leeds on September 4 for Josh Warrington’s huge rematch with fearsome Mexican puncher Mauricio Lara.”

Louise Sutton, 5 Live Sport Editor, said: “BBC Radio 5 Live Boxing has provided superb live coverage of some colossal fights over this past year, with many more to come.

“This deal with Matchroom confirms another series of thrilling nights of action for fans to enjoy. We’re delighted to be providing UK boxing fans with live free-to-air coverage of each head-to-head, alongside expert analysis, opinion and some special guests.”

Fans can listen live, on BBC Radio 5 Live or via BBC Sounds app.

• Kid Galahad vs Jazza Dickens BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds 10:30pm Saturday August 7

Mauricio Lara and Josh Warrington will rematchin an epic showdownat Emerald Headingley Stadium on Saturday September 4, live worldwide on DAZN. The co-main event will also feature undisputed Lightweight World Champion Katie Taylor, who puts all her belts on the line against IBF Mandatory Challenger Jennifer Han. ‘The Leeds Warrior’ (30-1, 7 KOs) was floored and ruthlessly finished by Mexico’s Lara (22-2, 15 KOs) in a sensational knockout loss at The SSE Arena, Wembley in February that put a massive dent in the former IBF Featherweight World Champion’s unification plans. 

Warrington endured a stunning upset defeat as he was dropped and nearly stopped in the fourth round before ‘Bronco’ sent him crashing to the canvas again in the ninth to end the 30-year-old’s unbeaten record. 

The upset-of-the-year contender sent shockwaves through the 126lbs division and now Warrington will look to exact revenge in front of a capacity crowd at the home of the Leeds Rhinos in the biggest fight of his career. 

Undisputed Lightweight rulerTaylor (18-0, 6 KOs) defends her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine crowns against her latest Mandatory ChallengerHan (18-3-1, 1 KOs) in the co-main event, another huge stage for the best in women’s boxing.

The Irish star was forced to dig deep as she retained her World Titles via a unanimous decision victory after another memorable meeting with Natasha Jonas last time out at Manchester Arena in May – nine years on from their London 2012 Olympic Games bout.

Han, a six-time national amateur champion fighting out of El Paso, Texas, won the vacant IBF Featherweight World Title against Helen Joseph in September 2015 and went on to make four defences of her Title – most recently against Lizbeth Crespo in February 2018. “I’ve never been much of a talker, I’d rather do my talking in the ring,” said Lara. “I’m going for a repeat performance on September 4. Hit once, hit twice. Warrington should know that I am coming for him. This is all about pride. This is for Mexico!”

“It’s been an up and down period, time for reflection and to reassess myself, said Warrington. “I’ve watched the first fight a dozen times, I’m mentally and physically prepared for Mauricio. It won’t be the same result, I want revenge. It’s going to be a huge event in Leeds, I can’t wait to get back in there and rewrite the script. It’s nothing personal, just business. September 4th we get back on track to the top.”

“I’m really excited to defend my Titles in front of a live crowd again and especially in Leeds,” said Taylor. “I grew up as a Leeds United fan so it’s fantastic to see them back in the Premier League and doing so well again. 

“My last few fights have effectively been behind closed door and it’s definitely a strange experience so I think to have crowds back again and outdoors in Leeds will make for a very special atmosphere. I’m back in the US in training camp, working hard and focused on putting in another big performance against a tough and experienced opponent on September 4.”

“I want to thank Katie for this opportunity,” said Han. “Enjoy your belts while you still have them. I will see you in September.”

Fresh from his devastating first round demolition job on James Tennyson, Mexico’s Jovanni Straffon (24-3-1, 17 KOs) will make the first defence of his IBO Lightweight World Title against the in-form Maxi Hughes (23-5-2, 5 KOs).

‘Impacto’ dropped and stopped Belfast’s Tennyson in a powerful performance at Manchester Arena in May to become the latest Mexican to spring an upset against British opposition in the UK. 

‘Maximus’ is relishing his new lease of life after picking up incredible wins over former World Title challenger Jono Carroll, previously undefeated Kazakh talent Viktor Kotochigov and Paul Hyland Jr to earn the British Lightweight Title in March. 

The full supporting undercard will be announced shortly.

“What better way to celebrate the return to normality for boxing than 20,000 passionate Leeds fans at Headingley Stadium. This is the biggest fight of Josh Warrington’s career and this time he has his city behind him in a must win fight that can only be a thriller,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “The greatest female fighter of all time Katie Taylor faces Mandatory Challenger Jennifer Han in another great fight. Katie is a lifelong Leeds United fan and I know how excited she is to fight in the city. Another Mexican upsetter Jovanni Straffon tries to derail the fairy tale story of Yorkshire’s Maxi Hughes who looks to take a giant leap in the World Lightweight landscape. There’s plenty more additions to be announced shortly in what will be a huge night of boxing live on DAZN.”

“Our game-changing global partnership with Matchroom has kicked off with an epic line-up, starting with Fight Camp – an unmissable summer of boxing based at the stunning Matchroom HQ in Brentwood, and leading into this huge double-header event. With many surprises still to come for the months ahead, this cements DAZN as the global home of boxing,” said Joseph Markowski, EVP at DAZN Group.

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 VIP and are available via StubHub to Fight Pass members on Thursday July 15 and on General Sale on Friday July 16 (both at Midday)

Josh Warrington has been given a massive boost by his huge army of fans who bombarded him with messages over the weekend.

‘The Leeds Warrior’ has received thousands since his first ever professional defeat against Mexican Mauricio Lara at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday night.

Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Warrington said: “I am so thankful for the incredible support I have received since Saturday night.

“The support from the public in Leeds has been overwhelming. Also, boxing fans from all over Britain have shown concern and sent lovely messages.

“It’s not been the best weekend, even Leeds United were beaten at Arsenal but I just wanted to take time to say how much these positive messages and social media posts are appreciated.”

Warrington travelled back home to Leeds with his wife, Natasha in the early hours of Sunday Morning to celebrate the third birthday of their twin daughters, Eliza and Olivia.

He added: “Being around my wife and my girls on their third birthday was special. They will always make me smile.

“Their birthday and hearing from so many well-wishers has been a great boost.

“Obviously, I’m hurting inside. I’ve lost my unbeaten record. That’s something I have treasured and it is a dent. Anyone who knows me can tell you I stand proud.”

Warrington, 30, will see a shoulder specialist this week, but doesn’t expect any long-term issues from that or other injuries he sustained in the fight.

When the all-clear is given Josh, father and trainer Sean O’Hagan, manager Steve Wood and promoter Eddie Hearn will map out plans for a ring return.

“I have a small, close-knit team around me and it will not be long before I am ready to start the climb back to the top of the Featherweight division,” says Warrington.

“I may not have to prove myself to my fans, but I want to show them and my rivals that I still belong at the very highest level.

“Good luck to Mauricio Lara who is a serious opponent for anybody. He is heavy-handed and holds power that will trouble any Featherweight.

“Will we meet again in a boxing ring? Who knows. We only fought a couple of days ago. But, if the chance comes I will jump at it.

“It’s now about having a break after 15 months in the gym, recharging my batteries, letting the injuries heal and becoming a two-time World Champion.

“I thank everyone again from the bottom of my heart and I can’t wait until we’re lifting the roof off Leeds Arena once more, singing ‘Marching On Together.’”

Eddie Hearn:

“Thanks Chris, Darren and Andy, joining us live on Sky Sports as well. We are so happy to be back! 2021 here we go. We’re back behind closed doors but it doesn’t matter. This is the biggest year yet for Matchroom Boxing as we go global. The start of twelve shows in eight weeks, in seven different countries. Firstly, this Saturday live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN around the world. The return of the No.1 Featherweight Josh Warrington against Mauricio Lara. Kiko Martinez against Zelfa Barrett, Reece Mould against Leigh Wood, Dalton Smith against Ishmael Ellis, Hopey Price against Mendoza and this one to kick us off, Ibrahim Nadim against Jonny Phillips.”

Josh Warrington – Leeds, England – 30-0, 7 KOs – fighting Mauricio Lara in a 12 round Featherweight contest:

“He’s got a better knockout ratio than I have. But can he do the 12 rounds as well as I can? Has he got as much experience? I don’t think he can. But that’s up to me to expose that. He’s got punch power but, if I’m not there to be hit, he’ll be hitting thin air. It won’t go past six rounds. I strongly believe that. The way I’ve been hitting with 16oz gloves on? When I then put the 8oz gloves on and see the gaps in his defence, I expect an early night. But I’m experienced over 12 rounds. I’ve done marathons. I can do it at a good pace. This man here has no pressure. He is full of Mexican pride. I’m a big fan of Mexican fighters and how they wear their hearts on their sleeves. He will bring it but I wouldn’t want it any other way. This guy is a real puncher. He will bring it, which will tune me up nicely for the fights down the line. Make no mistake, I’m treating him like a monster because I can’t afford a slip-up.”

Mauricio Lara – Mexico City, Mexico – 21-2, 14 KOs – fighting Josh Warrington in a 12 round Featherweight contest:

“Thank you very much. Thanks for the invitation. It’s a lovely country that you’ve got here despite the fact that we haven’t been able to go out at all. It is a great opportunity for me and Josh Warrington is going to face a really tricky fighter in me. I’m also aware that I’m coming up agains the No.1 ranked fighter and it’s my opportunity to show the people of Mexico and everyone what I can do. I enjoy coming for war. We’re going to clash in the ring, that’s definitely going to happen. I’m looking forward to it. From the first bell I will be looking for the knockout. If it goes the distance I’ll be ready. I’ll be ready for whatever comes. I’d love to make history on February 13th, to take this victory home to Mexico City. It is a huge opportunity and I’m really looking forward to taking advantage of it.”

Zelfa Barrett – Manchester, England – 24-1, 15 KOs – defending his IBF Intercontinental Super-Featherweight Title against Kiko Martinez:

“I’m ready. I’m more than ready. I respect Kiko for what he’s done in the sport. He’s fought the best. I believe that I’m one of the best. It’s my time to shine and to show how good I am. Styles make fights. When I fight another guy like Eric Donovan, slick and tricky, I’ll learn from that. Kiko is coming, I know he’s coming, I can see him coming now! We’re ready for what he’s going to bring. Fight Camp was a good experience and Eric Donovan was a good fighter. I’m ready for anything. However he comes out I’ll just work on that. I’ll do what I’ve got to do. I know what he’s coming to do. He’s coming to fight. He’s coming for war. We’re ready. I know what I want and I know where we’re going. Kiko is a good fighter and beating him will put me in a good position.”

Kiko Martinez – Alicante, Spain – 41-9-2, 29 KOs – challenging Zelfa Barrett for his IBF Intercontinental Super-Featherweight Title:

“It’s great to be here. Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to be here again. It is true, we’ve had some great nights in the past. This is a huge fight for me, and the opportunity for me to make history, to be one of the few people that have won Titles in three different weight classes. I’m very excited and prepared to face a really good fighter in Barrett on Saturday. It’s to make history, to make history in the ring. I’ve never been content with money alone, the only thing that makes me happy is being active as a fighter. It’s about doing all that I can, and giving my all every time that I step into the ring. I’m super prepared. Extremely prepared.”

Leigh Wood – Nottingham, England – 23-2, 13 KOs – fighting Reece Mould for the vacant British Featherweight Title:

“I’m extremely confident of winning that British Title on Saturday night. New trainer, not so much new things. Obviously there’s only so many punches in boxing that you can learn. The perception of it, how you look at it, how you view it, how you set things up, keeping my base, just fundamentals. Drilling it and drilling it thousands of times. I’m really feeling confident ahead of Saturday night. I’ve said a few things that he’s taken as disrespectful. I’m not disrespecting him. I rate him, he’s a good fighter, 13-0, in and out of a gym with a World Champion. I’ve heard a lot of sparring rumours as well. I just believe that anyone I’m in with on Saturday night, I’m coming away with the win. I spent most of my career on my back foot. Dancing around, switching and moving. It’s one way of boxing but with my power, Ben was scratching his head at why I wasn’t using it. We’ve changed things in sparring and it’s coming together. Everyone that has ever taken me on the pads can vouch for me that I’m a big puncher. There’s more to boxing than punching. You’ve got to set it up. You’ve got to be smart. That’s what we’ve been working on.”

Reece Mould – Doncaster, England – 13-0, 6 KOs – fighting Leigh Wood for the vacant British Featherweight Title:

“Boxing is all about timing and I believe this is the right time for this fight. I’m going to win this fight and go onto bigger things. I’m looking forward to it. I’m not expecting an easy night. I’ve said all along that it’s not going to be an easy fight. If Leigh comes to bring it and trade with me then I believe I’ll get him out of there early. We’re going to push him all the way. I’m expecting Leigh to bring his best. He’s got everything on his shoulders for this fight. He’s got to win the fight so he’s going to bring his best, but I believe my best beats Leigh Wood’s best.”

Dalton Smith – Sheffield, England – 6-0, 5 KOs – fighting Ishmael Ellis in an ten round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’d have like to have got out before the end of last year but I got COVID-19 so we had to take our time. I’m happy that I’m back out on the first card of the year. This isn’t the fight that we originally had scheduled in but again, we can’t argue with that, it’s nobody’s fault. Now I’m facing Ishmael Ellis who is a lively opponent. I didn’t want anyone to step in as just a knock-over. We managed to get a lively opponent and we’ve got a good fight on Saturday. These guys facing me have got everything to gain and nothing to lose. For me, mainly I’ve got everything to lose. There’s a lot of pressure in these fights but this is the game we’re in. I want to keep on propelling my career further and further up. I’ve got to take these challenges. I think the better my opposition gets the better you’ll see of me.”

Ishmael Ellis – Birmingham, England – 11-3 – fighting Dalton Smith in an ten round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m 100% here to win this weekend. Thank you for the opportunity again. Thank you Dalton as well. It’s a massive opportunity for me. A lot of fighters have been turning these opportunities down but us underdog fighters can’t be turning down these opportunities. I do believe that I can give him a good fight on Saturday night. I took that loss last year. It was my own fault. I wasn’t really prepared for the fight, I was out of training. The opportunity came and I was just eager to fight. I just want to keep on going. I’ve had a bit more time to prepare for this one. I haven’t taken this fight just to go down in the first round and leave. I’ve come here to prove myself and gain something from this.”

Hopey Price – Leeds, England – 3-0, 1 KO – fighting Daniel Mendoza in a six round Featherweight contest:

“We’ve been back and forth with a few different opponents. I’ve just got to concentrate on doing my job on Saturday night. Now I’ve finally got an opponent I can just go out there and do what I’ve been working on in the gym. Obviously we have to move a bit quicker because of the pandemic. Me and Dave feel like I’m ready to move quicker anyway. I think with my ability and my boxing brain I’m ready to do so. These sort of fights are great experience for me for when I do eventually step-up. Having Jonny Phillips as my third fight has helped me improve as a fighter. I think I just need to keep taking these step-ups. That’s what is going to get me to where I need to be in the end.”

Daniel Mendoza – Chichigalpa, Nicaragua – 11-11, 4 KOs – fighting Hopey Price in a six round Featherweight contest:

“I’d like to thank god first and foremost for being here. Thanks also to the promoters. It is true that I really like tough fights and it is going to be another one on Saturday night but I’m really looking forward to it. Whenever I go into the ring it’s not about fighting, it is about winning. I always give my best and I have great heart. I will be doing that in the ring.”

Ibrahim Nadim – Keighley, England – 2-0 – fighting Jonny Phillips in a six round Featherweight contest:

“Firstly I’d like to thank Matchroom and Sky Sports for the opportunity. It’s good to be back boxing again. It’s a tough test but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. It’s been frustrating, but if you look at the positive side of things, it has given me more time to learn in the ring. I’m prepared for whatever he brings. I want to be in exciting fights like this.”

Jonny Phillips – Sandhurst, England – 5-5, 2 KOs – fighting Ibrahim Nadim in a six round Featherweight contest:

“This time you’ve given me four weeks’ notice not four days! I’ve managed to make the weight quite comfortably. I made it at the start of the week. Mentally, we’re all there. Everything is in place now. I felt good in that last one but it was rushed and it was my first time being on Sky. That was hyped up. Now I’m used to it all. I’m buzzing, I cannot wait to get in there. I’m not in this game for money or fame. I want glory. I want to end my career with any belt. Beating him is going to hopefully put me a step closer to you offering me a Title fight.”

Mauricio Lara says he is ready to go to war with former IBF Featherweight World Champion Josh Warrington at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday February 13, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

The 22-year-old from Mexico City is ranked in the top ten in the world with the IBF and is currently enjoying a ten-fight winning streak that stretches back to May 2018 when he suffered only his second career loss at the hands of Eliot Chavez.

‘Bronco’ (21-2, 14 KOs) has only fought outside of Mexico on one occasion, a win over Eduardo Estela in Argentina in 2019, but the youngster is full of confidence and believes he can rip up the script by claiming the biggest scalp in the 126lbs division this weekend. 

“Initially when I heard it was a World Title fight, I was really excited and motivated,” said Lara on a recent media call. “When the news came that it was no longer going to be a World Title fight it didn’t change things. I remained just as motivated. We’ve prepared to do a job and that’s what we’re going to do. 

“Recently becoming a father to a daughter is an extra motivation for me. It’s always an extra motivation for me when I enter the ring, whether that is for training or fighting. I’ve prepared to come and win. I know that I am going to win. I’ve prepared really hard to go to war in the ring. 

“I’m not concerned about the decisions of the judges if it goes to points. We’ve come prepared to win, whether that is by knockout, which would be ideal, but if not, I’m going to make sure it is a clear victory so it doesn’t need to depend on the judges. Either way, I think they will do their jobs correctly. 

“It’s normal for fighters in Mexico to begin their careers very young and that was the case for me. I’m going to use that to my advantage when I go into this particular fight. Josh Warrington is seen as the world’s number one Featherweight fighter in Mexico, and he’s number one for a reason. They also believe in me, and they know that I am going to war in London on Saturday.”

Warrington vs. Lara tops Matchroom’s first show of 2021, Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (24-1, 15 KOs) defends his IBF Intercontinental Title against Spain’s former Super-Bantamweight World Champion Kiko Martinez (41-9-2, 29 KOs) in the chief support bout, Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (23-2, 13 KOs) clashes with unbeaten Doncaster man Reece Mould (13-0, 6 KOs) for the vacant British Featherweight Title, fast-rising Sheffield Super-Lightweight talent Dalton Smith (6-0, 5 KOs) takes on Ishmael Ellis (11-3), Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (3-0, 1 KO) sees action and Keighley Featherweight Ibrahim Nadim (2-0) steps-up against Jonny Phillips (5-5, 2 KOs).

Matchroom Boxing will return to The SSE Arena, Wembley for Josh Warrington vs. Mauricio Lara on Saturday February 13 and David Avanesyan vs. Josh Kelly on Saturday February 20, with both events shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

Matchroom’s first two events of 2021 kick off a stacked schedule that also features the highly anticipated Heavyweight rematch between Alexander Povetkin and Dillian Whyte on Saturday March 6, Lawrence Okolie’s shot at the WBO Cruiserweight crown against Krzysztof Glowacki on Saturday March 20 and rising Welterweight star Conor Benn vs. Samuel Vargas on Saturday April 10.

This follows on from Matchroom’s hugely successful residency at The SSE Arena, Wembley in October, November and December last year that that saw pound-for-pound star Oleksander Usyk outpoint Derek Chisora, Undisputed Lightweight ruler Katie Taylor retain her belts against Miriam Gutierrez, Conor Benn turn in a career-best performance against Sebastian Formella, Billy Joe Saunders defend his WBO Super-Middleweight crown against Martin Murray and culminated in Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua brutally knocking out Kubrat Pulev in front of 1,000 fans. 

Matchroom’s 2021 schedule launches with a bang on February 13 as Warrington (30-0, 7 KOs) faces Mexico’s Mauricio Lara (21-2, 14 KOs) while he waits for a huge fight later in the year, Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (24-1, 15 KOs) defends his IBF Intercontinental Title against Spain’s former Super-Bantamweight World Champion Kiko Martinez (41-9-2, 29 KOs) in the chief support bout, Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (23-2, 13 KOs) clashes with unbeaten Doncaster man Reece Mould (13-0, 6 KOs) for the vacant British Featherweight Title, fast-rising Sheffield Super-Lightweight talent Dalton Smith (6-0, 5 KOs) sees action, Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (3-0, 1 KO) meets Zahid Hussain (16-1, 2 KOs) and Keighley Featherweight Ibrahim Nadim (2-0) steps up against Jonny Phillips (5-5, 2 KOs).

Russia’s European Welterweight Champion Avanesyan (26-3-1, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited Title defence against  Kelly (10-0-1, 6 KOs) at the top of the bill on February 20, Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (13-1, 10 KOs) returns against Spain’s Jorge Fortea (21-2-1, 7 KOs), undefeated Welterweights Florian Marku (7-0-1, 5 KOs) and Rylan Charlton (6-0-1, 3 KOs) meet in what promises to be an explosive ten-round battle, Amy Timlin (4-0-1) and Carly Skelly (3-0-1) rematch for the vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title after their split draw on the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora undercard last October and explosive Romford Heavyweight Johnny Fisher makes his highly anticipated professional debut. 

John Drury,VP and General Manager at The SSE Arena, Wembley, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Matchroom Boxing back to The SSE Arena, Wembley for our first events of 2021. We’re looking forward to another huge residency, with ASM Global’s VenueShield protocols keeping everyone at our venue safe and comfortable in a welcoming and Covid-secure environment.”

Josh Warrington has today vacated his IBF World Title after the IBF refused to sanction his proposed unification fight in April.

Earlier this month, the proposed mega fight with Xu Can was delayed with a new working date of April 24. Matchroom will now look to finalise that fight or make a giant match up with WBC king Gary Russell. Both the Can and Russell fights would be for the coveted Ring Magazine belt.

“It’s so important for Josh to be in a mega fight after Lara on February 13,” said Matchroom Sport Managing Director Eddie Hearn. “He has his heart set on the Ring belt and it’s up to us to make the Can or Russell fights for April or early May. I’ve been working hard with Robert Diaz of Golden Boy to close Xu Can and also had several conversations with Luis De Cubas regarding a Gary Russell bout – both fights are Fight of the Year contenders.”

“It’s disappointing we couldn’t have the IBF Title on the line, but I can’t let those decisions stand in the way of me going down in British boxing history by facing the very best in the division,” said Warrington. “I’ve always dreamt about winning the Ring belt, for me it leaves no doubt who the king of the division is. Right now, my mind and focus is on Lara for February 13 and then I’m looking to pick up that beautiful red and blue belt.”

Warrington will face Mauricio Lara on Saturday February 13 live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

Eddie Hearn:

“I am very proud and very happy to welcome the No.1 Featherweight in the world back to Matchroom, Sky Sports and DAZN. It’s funny how life works out, it was a conversation I had with Steve Wood and I asked him, “When’s Warrington out of contract again?”, and it all went from there. 

“It’s been amazing to watch Josh’s development since we parted company and I think what he has done has been sensational. The early days looking back at what we started at Leeds Arena are probably some of the most rewarding days of my career. Forgetting the beer that used to come over the tiers onto my head, the atmosphere that you guys generate up here is second to none. 

“When you talk about atmospheres, the likes of Carl Frampton in Belfast, Lewis Ritson in Newcastle and I am not just saying that because I am here, but up here really is special. I think it began on a Wednesday night at Leeds Arena and even then you could feel what was growing. Going on to win the British and European Titles there, the crowds were going up and up and we got to a stage where we parted company with Josh and unfortunately I have had to watch these great nights and it was a sickener for me! 

“I was watching Elland Road and thinking he won’t be Lee Selby, and fair play it was a great performance and he won that fight in style. Whilst it wasn’t on my show I was proud and pleased for him because of what him and Steve Wood have built from the ground up is special. There was no GB squads or Olympic medals, this was starting in small hall shows winning English Titles. He came to Hull to win the Commonwealth Title and sold 300 tickets and that was a life and death fight at that stage of his career. 

“Let’s not forget that Josh is the number one. Check the rankings, check BoxRec and check his resume. What he has achieved in the last year and a half is extraordinary! The Carl Frampton fight was an unbelievable performance and now I feel it’s time to establish that legacy internationally and to have those away days in America. It’s also very important we fight here in Leeds, and the absolute focus has to be the unification fights. He has been there, seen it and done it all so now it’s time to have the major fights here in this great city.

“All the champions have been on the phone to me and for me the unification fight is the target to finalise over the next two weeks. There is also the focus of the American dream, we know that Kid Galahad is the mandatory and at some point that is something that Josh will have to focus on but for now the aim is the big fights here in Leeds. It’s what we feel we have to deliver for Josh and that is key. 

“It’s a pleasure to have Josh back, not just one of the best in Britain but one of the best pound-for-pound in the world and now it’s time to prove that so be ready because we’re going to have some crazy nights in Leeds!”

Josh Warrington:

“It’s good to be back and obviously Eddie has missed me and the big nights. This is a long story, it is not something that happens in a short space of time. In the break of the transition I had a chance to develop a little bit more and did what I did in winning the World Title. As I get round to this chapter of my career, it’s created some big opportunities. The unification is the main priority but the away day in America is also on my mind. 

“It’s all about making memories for me now and Eddie and Matchroom have the connections in America. There is plenty of fights there for me whether that is down the unification route or fighting my mandatory in Kid Galahad. Eddie has said he will deliver and I believe that he will do so. 

“That night at Elland Road will stay with me until the day I die. That was a box ticked and now to fight at Headingley would be so special. Anyone walking out there wouldn’t know what had hit them. Fighting at Headingley will be the last thing for me to achieve here in the UK.

“I want all the big fights because being a part of the big nights is what excites me. I never thought when I first turned pro that I would win a World Title, winning the British crown was my aim. To be here now I feel that I will beat any other Featherweight in this division. 

“I don’t want to be remembered as a decent boxer from Leeds, I want to be remembered as a UK great who was a part of special night, not a Champion who had a padded record and padded defences. The fans are a massive part of my journey and there is possibly a higher pressure when you’re fighting at home because of that expectation that is there. My next fight will be something special!”

Undefeated IBF Featherweight World Champion Josh Warrington has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, with his future fights to be shown live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

‘The Leeds Warrior’ (30-0, 7 KOs) created history by becoming Leeds’ first ever male World Champion when he upset the odds to wrestle the IBF 126lbs crown from Lee Selby at Elland Road, the home of his beloved Leeds United, in May 2018.

Despite producing a career best performance against Selby, Warrington was again written off by many ahead of his first defence against Irish fight legend and two-weight World Champion Carl Frampton at Manchester Arena in December 2019.

Warrington retained his IBF Title in an epic Fight of the Year contender with ‘The Jackal’ that captivated the crowd from the opening bell with a blistering pace set by the Yorkshire hero as he earned a unanimous victory.

A close fought battle with IBF mandatory challenger Kid Galahad followed at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, with Warrington edging out his Sheffield rival via a controversial split decision that had many in the boxing world divided.

He then went on to defend his title with an emphatic second-round demolition job over Sofiane Takoucht in October and now has his heart set on fighting in the USA and unifying the Featherweight division to cement himself as the no.1 126lbs fighter on the planet.

“It’s great to be back with Matchroom, Sky and now DAZN and I’m very excited about the future,” said Warrington. “I have enjoyed my time at BT but now I’m looking forward to going on to achieve my dreams of both fighting in the USA and unifying the division.”

“I’m ecstatic to welcome Josh Warrington back to Matchroom,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “We had some amazing times helping to build Josh in Leeds and now we re-unite at a time when he is the king of the division.

“Josh has some of the most loyal and passionate supporters in sport and we look forward to delivering nights they will never forget. There is so much more for Josh to accomplish and today starts a new chapter in the thrilling Josh Warrington story.”

FRANK WARREN AND Queensberry Promotions can announce that the company has parted ways with IBF world featherweight champion Josh Warrington at the conclusion of his promotional agreement.

The now 30-0 man from Leeds joined forces with Queensberry in 2017 and was quickly steered into mandatory position for the world title showdown with Lee Selby that he long craved. This was delivered on a memorable night at Elland Road in May 2018 and Josh subsequently defended in a huge Box Office event against Carl Frampton in the December at Manchester Arena.

Home advantage for a mandatory defence against fellow Yorkshireman Kid Galahad was secured in June 2019, with his last fight being a voluntary defence against Sofiane Takoucht, which resulted in an emphatic second round victory.

“I am happy to say that we delivered for Josh on every level and helped him realise his goals in the sport,” said promoter Warren. “We all wish Josh every success for the future and will always remember the great nights we enjoyed in Leeds.” 

Josh Warrington thrilled his hometown fans by stopping Sofiane Takoucht in two rounds to retain the IBF Featherweight title at First District Arena in Leeds, England.

In round two, Warrington dropped Takooucht with a big right hand. Seconds later, it was another huge right to the head that sent Takoucht down for a 2nd time. Warrington then landed big combination that started Takoucht that forced a referee stoppage at 2:54.

Warrington, 125 lbs of Leeds, UK is 30-0 with seven knockouts. Takoucht, 124 lbs of France is 35-4-1.

Zelfa Barrett stopped Jordan McCorry in round nine of their scheduled 12-round super featherweight fight.

In round three, Barrett landed a thudding left hook to the body that put McCorry down.

In round eight, It was another body shot that hurt McCorry, and a follow up right to the head sent McCorry to the deck. Adding insult to McCorry, he was docked a point for landing a punch after the bell. In round nine, Barrett landed an uppercut to the head that sent McCorry to the canvas, and the bout was stopped at 1:43.

Barrett, 129 lbs of Manchester, UK is 23-1 with 14 knockouts. McCorry, 130 lbs of Scotland is 18-7-1.

George Davey made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Zygimantas Butkevicius in a super welterweight contest.

Davey, 154 lbs of York, UK won by a referee score of 40-36 and is now 1-0. Butkevicius, 156 lbs of Lithuania is 2-26.

Lyndon Arthur won a 12-round unanimous decision over Emmanuel Amim in a light heavyweight fight.

In round three, Amim was cut around the right eye. In round four, Amim was cut over his left eye. Later in the round, Arthur dropped Amim with a hard right

In round eight, Amim landed a hard flurry on the ropes that hurt Arthur, and in the process opened up a cut over Arthur’s left eye.

Arthur, 174 lbs of Manchester, UK won by scores of 117-110, 117-111 and 115-112 to raise his unbeaten mark to 16-0. Amim, 172 lbs of Accra, GHA is 14-3-1.

Reece Mould won a six-round decision over Bayardo Ramos in a featherweight bout.

In round two, Mould dropped Ramos with a right hand.

Mould, 133 lbs of Doncaster, UL won by a 60-53 score and is now 13-0. Ramos, 135 lbs of Spain is 8-15-1.

In round two, Mould dropped Ramos with a right hand.

Shabazz Masoud won a six-round decision over Yesner Talavera in a featherweight bout.

Masoud, 126 lbs of the UK won by a referee score of 60-54, and is now 6-0. Talavera, 130 lbs of Garona, SPA is 15-12-1-2.

Queensberry Promotions are proud to present the return of the ‘Leeds Warrior’ Josh Warrington as he defends his IBF World Featherweight Championship against Sofiane Takoucht. The show will be held at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, and will air live on BT Sports.

Both of the main event competitors weighed in successfully, with Josh Warrington registering a weight of 8st 13lb 7oz on the scales and Sofiane Takoucht slightly lighter at 8st 12lb 8oz

Elsewhere on the card, Zelfa Barrett (9st 3lb 5oz) defends his Commonwealth Super Featherweight Championship against the always exciting Jordan McCorry (9st 4lb) and Lyndon Arthur will contest the vacant Commonwealth Light Heavyweight Championship against the Ghanian Emmanuel Anim (12st 4lb 8oz).

Reece Mould (9st 7lb 10oz) will meet Bayardo Ramos (9st 5lb) over 6 rounds, George Davey (11st 12lb) will make his pro debut against Zygimantas Butkevicius (11st 2lb) and the much heralded Shabazz Masoud (8st 10lb 14oz) will compete against Yesner Talavera (9st 4lb 12oz)

Running Order Below:

Fight # 1 – 16:00 hrs

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest

EVALDAS PETRAUSKAS                
V        
JOHNSON TELLEZ

Fight # 2

6 X 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest

SHAKIEL THOMPSON                
V        
LOUIS VAN POETSCH

Fight # 3

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest

CALLUM SIMPSON                    
V        
KIRI PSONKO

Fight # 4

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest

MARK HEFFRON                    
V        
RUI MANUEL PAVANITO

Fight # 5

4 X 3 Minute Rounds Featherweight Contest

JACK DANIELS                    
V        
JAMIE SPEIGHT

Fight # 6

6 X 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest

JOHN JOYCE                    
V        
JORDAN GRANNUM

Fight # 7 

TROY WILLIAMSON                
V        
TBA 

Fight # 8
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Featherweight Contest

SHABAZZ MASOUD                
V        
YESNER TALAVERA

Fight # 9 

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Featherweight Contest

REECE MOULD                    
V        
BAYARDO RAMOS

Fight # 10 

THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 175 lbs

LYNDON ARTHUR                
V        
EMMANUEL ANIM

Fight # 11

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Welterweight Contest

GEORGE DAVEY                    
V        
ZYGIMANTAS BUTKEVICIUS

Fight # 12 

THE COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

12 X 3 Minute Rounds

ZELFA BARRETT                    
V        
JORDAN McCORRY

Fight # 13 

THE IBF WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

12 X 3 Minute Rounds

JOSH WARRINGTON                
V        
SOFIANE TAKOUCHT

(Oct. 10, 2019) — ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, will stream a pair of stacked cards this weekend, including a world title bout featuring all-action IBF featherweight champion Josh Warrington.
 
The weekend extravaganza kicks off Friday at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT, as unbeaten flyweight contender Jay Harris will battle three-time Irish Olympian Paddy Barnes in a 12-rounder at Ulster Hall in Belfast.
 
Warrington will make the third defense of his title Saturday against Sofiane Takoucht at the First Direct Arena in his hometown of Leeds, England. Warrington-Takoucht and select undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ starting at 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT.
 
Warrington (29-0, 6 KOs), nicknamed “The Leeds Warrior,” won the world title in his hometown last May with a well-deserved split decision victory over Lee Selby. He returned later that year and bested former two-weight world champion Carl Frampton by unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year contender. In his last outing, Warrington edged Kid Galahad via split decision. Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs) has won eight consecutive bouts and is a former European and IBF International featherweight champion.
 
In other ESPN+ streaming action on the Warrington-Takoucht card:

• Zelfa Barrett (22-1, 13 KOs) will make the first defense of his Commonwealth super featherweight title in a 12-rounder against Scottish veteran Jordan McCorry (18-6-1, 4 KOs).
   
• In a 12-rounder for the vacant Commonwealth light heavyweight title, Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12 KOs) will take on Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12 KOs).
   
• Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8 KOs) will fight France’s Fouad El Massoudi (17-11, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBO European super welterweight championship.

Harris (16-0, 8 KOs) is coming off a career-best win June 1 over former world title challenger Angel Moreno, and he is taking yet another step up against Barnes (6-2, 1 KO), who will have the crowd behind him. Barnes won a pair of Olympic bronze medals as an amateur, but in a bid for the WBC flyweight world title last August, he lost via fourth-round knockout to Cristofer Rosales. He dropped a split decision to Oscar Mojica in his comeback bout but rebounded to decision Joel Sanchez over six rounds in August.

The Harris-Barnes stream will also include the following bouts:

• Super lightweight sensation Sean McComb (8-0, 4 KOs) will fight Emiliano Dominguez Rodriguez (23-5, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
   
• Former lightweight world champion Terry Flanagan (34-2, 14 KOs) will look to make it two wins in a row versus Michael Ansah (17-9-2, 11 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.
   
• Top Rank signee Paddy “Real Deal” Donovan, from Limerick, Ireland, will make his professional debut in a six-round welterweight fight against Arturo Lopez (5-13-3, 0 KOs). Donovan is trained and managed by former middleweight world champion Andy Lee.
   
• Former Irish amateur star Pierce O’Leary will make his professional debut in a four-round super lightweight fight against Oscar Amador (10-22, 1 KO).

Use the hashtags #WarringtonTakoucht and #HarrisBarnes to join the conversation on social media.
 
For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
 
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.
 
Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and can cancel at any time.
 
ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com.

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren today held the final press conference ahead of Josh Warrington’s third IBF world featherweight championship defence at First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday (October 12), live on BT Sport.

Warrington faces number four ranked challenger, France’s Sofiane Takoucht.

Also on the bill, Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett defends his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against Scot Jordan McCorry.

Barrett’s stablemate Lyndon Arthur meets Ghana’s Emmanuel Anim for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight championship.

Here are a selection of quotes

FRANK WARREN

“Hopefully there is no banana skin and if Josh comes through we can get to Elland Road again.”

“He is the best featherweight on the planet and can go on to become one of the best fighters of his generation.”

“If people say he isn’t the best why don’t Leo Santa Cruz and Oscar Valdez want to fight him?”

“Josh is something special and we will make big fights happen, but he has to get past Takoucht.”

“Zelfa against Jordan, this is a good fight. They are both skilful fighters, competitors and I’m sure we will see something special on Saturday night. Zelfa is my fighter, but I love having Jordan on our shows. I’ve never seen a guy give so much as he does.”

“If Lyndon can come through there is a lot happening among the British light-heavyweights and he will be in the shake up.”

JOSH WARRINGTON

“We took our eyes off a few things before the last fight against Kid Galahad. We were so concentrated on unification fights and just beating him up. I think we took our eye off the ball in a few areas of training.”

“This time, I have not looked beyond Takoucht. There is talk about unifications or going back to Elland Road, but the focus is this fight and this fight only.”

“I want an A class performance after the cuddling contest against Galahad. Sofiane can go home a hero by beating me and I can’t let that happen. World champions can get complacent, but we are on a mission.

“My mentality isn’t that this is an instant win. Winning is the most important thing but I want to send a message and win in style.”

SEAN O’HAGAN

“We have left no stone unturned and we have to come back with a statement.

Other world champions have turned down the fight against Josh, but Sofiane took it without hesitation and he will come and try to rip the title away. I believe that Josh is the best featherweight on the planet, but we have to win well.”

SOFIANE TAKOUCHT

“I feel good, I have been training hard,  I am in the best condition and will show up on the night. Josh is a very good champion, but I need to make an impact in order to win. Winning will change my life and reputation in the boxing world. I believe in myself. I am ready to fight.”

ZELFA BARRETT

“Jordan is going to throw the kitchen sink at me and like Frank said he will give 150 per-cent.

We wanted this fight because Jordan will bring the best out of me. Jordan lost to Archie Sharp and Sam Bowen, but I am not them and the best in my weight division. My mindset is great and I am a different man to the boxer who lost to Ronnie Clark.

“If I want to get to world level these are the fighters I have to dismantle. I want the British champion Sam Bowen, but I am not overlooking Jordan.”

JORDAN McCORRY

“I have put everything into this camp and I am going to get a win. I respect Zelfa, he is a good boxer and looked very good against Lyon Woodstock, but I can cause problems if I stick to the game plan.”

“He showed flaws in his defence when he lost to Ronnie Clark and that is a bit of blueprint. Credit to him he went back to the gym and improved. This could be my last chance so I have got to give it everything and show what I am about.”

LYNDON ARTHUR:

“I don’t want a walkover, but there is no department where he is better than me. When I win this I am right behind these guys like Anthony Yarde and those fights can be made.

Right now, Anim is my sole thought. I am in the gym 24/7 perfecting my craft. There are lot of great Manchester fighters and I am just building my legacy.”

EMMANUEL ANIM:

“This is a great opportunity and something I have been waiting for a long time. Lyndon is a average boxer and never fought anyone like me in his life. I am going to take his title. He says I have beat nobody, but I am going to show I am somebody.”

The big night of action in Leeds is headed by local hero Josh Warrington (29-0, 6KOs) who makes the third defence of his IBF featherweight championship against France’s Sofiane Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs). Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-1, 4KOs). In a third title clash Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) faces Ghanaian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight crown , in a battle of the big hitters.

Darlington’s Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Reece Mould (12-0, 6 KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0), Jack Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs), Callum Simpson (1-0), Evaldas Petrauskas (1-0 1 KO) plus exciting debutant George Davey are all in action.

Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and firstdirectarena.com Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

LEEDS UNITED star Pablo Hernandez will be the good luck charm in Josh Warrington’s corner this weekend.

IBF featherweight champion Warrington (29-0, 6 KOs) makes the third defence of his world title against Sofiane Takoucht at First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday (October 12) night, live on BT Sport.

The club’s all-time great Lucas Radebe led the ring walk in Warrington’s title winning performance against Lee Selby in May 2018. Now it is the turn of the club’s current Player of the Year Hernandez.

Spanish midfielder Hernandez and several other Leeds United players will be roaring on Josh from ringside when he face France’s Takoucht.

Warrington who rarely misses a match when his team are playing at home said: “Pablo is our own Spanish magician so to have him holding my belt and getting in the ring with me, wow.

“It is great that several of the players can make it because it was the close season when I beat Kid Galahad in the summer and they had a match the next day when I boxed Carl Frampton.

“Leeds United are such a huge part of my life so it’s inspirational having the players watching me box. It’s mad because these are the fellas I cheer every weekend as a fan.

“Having Lucas as part of the ring walk when I fought Selby was something else and having Pablo there fires me up for Takoucht.”

Hernandez has been sidelined with injury, but expects to return later this month and Warrington added: “The reaction I got when I put on Twitter that Pablo was part of my team this weekend was amazing.

“Just imagine the noise this weekend. Takoucht will have never heard anything like it.”

The big night of action in Leeds is headed by local hero Josh Warrington (29-0, 6KOs) who makes the third defence of his IBF featherweight championship against France’s Sofiane Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs). Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-1, 4KOs). In a third title clash Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) faces Ghanaian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight crown , in a battle of the big hitters.

Darlington’s Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Reece Mould (12-0, 6 KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0), Jack Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs), Callum Simpson (1-0), Evaldas Petrauskas (1-0 1 KO) plus exciting debutant George Davey are all in action.

Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and firstdirectarena.com Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

JOSH WARRINGTON will be back home in Leeds when he defends his IBF world featherweight title against number four ranked Sofiane Takoucht at First Direct Arena on Saturday October 12, live on BT Sport

Warrington (29-0, 6KOs) who will be making the third defence of his championship faced off with French challenger Takoucht (35-3-1, 13KOs) at a press conference today.

Here are a selection of quotes from the media event and details of a magnificent undercard featuring some of Britain’s best young boxers.

JOSH WARRINGTON: “I hoped for a unification, but that isn’t mine, my management or Frank Warren’s fault. None of the champions seem to want it. I have to stay active so we’re back in Leeds. Some of my fans had money saved to go and watch me in America and Frank really tried. I am hoping to get through this one and it happens. All I am doing is concentrating on keeping my title, but ultimately my dream is to unify. I just want to win a unified title against one champion and I will then fight anyone until the cows come home. Takoucht has a massive opportunity and he has been given a golden ticket. Takoucht knows he has a massive opportunity in my back yard and it would be ridiculous to think this is a given. I am not there to make a statement, but show that if I step up to any of the other champions I beat them. The fire is in my belly. I want a performance and must beat people like this is style. I would be disappointed if it was a long drawn out points win. I want to get it done quickly. Michael Conlan is making big waves, but I want the other champions then I will fight the likes of him. I’m coming up to ten years as a professional. The support has just grown and grown and inspired young fighters in Leeds. The journey hasn’t finished. I would love the WBA champion Leo Santa Cruz and if Shakur Stevenson wins the WBO title I would line him up and give him 12 rounds of hell, but it’s this fight against Takoucht I’m thinking about.

SEAN O’HAGAN (Warrington’s father and trainer): “Takoucht is a very experienced fighter and the highest ranked fighter available at number four. It is a genuine fight and one where we know we have to raise our game and keep the momentum going until the super fights come. Takoucht is very capable and we are taking him serious. He has plenty of grit, is durable, can box, fight or be evasive. He has a bit of everything and it makes for a good fight. We had a bad night at the office against Galahad and still won. Anthony Joshua had a bad night and got leathered. We always enjoy fighting in Leeds and this time we have an opponent who wants to fight.”

SOFIANE TAKOUCHT: “This is a childhood dream for me since I started boxing at ten years old. Winning this would change everything and I hope it brings me recognition. Josh is a great champion and this is a wonderful opportunity. I will show myself in a good light.”

ALAIN VASTINE (Takoucht’s trainer): “Nothing is given in life so we are coming here to win, nothing else. We have an opportunity and it’s up to us to grab it and we will do everything to get it. Sofiane has courage, determination and a big heart. We know that Josh has the support, but it has been like that before in the Ukraine, but we are coming to win and will win.”

The big world championship fight will be backed up by four title fights that guarantee action and excitement.

Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight crown against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-4, 4KOs).

Leeds idol Jack Bateson (10-0, 3KOs) challenges Preston’s Michael Ramabeletsa (17-17, 8KOs) who will be making the first defence of his English super-bantamweight belt.

Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) faces Ghanian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight title, in a battle of the big hitters.

Darlington’s Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs) takes a step up in class when he meets Rotherham’s Nav Mansouri (20-2-2, 6KOs) for the vacant WBO Intercontinental super-welterweight belt.

Besides the FIVE title fights, also boxing on the show will be Willy Hutchinson (9-0, 6KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0) plus exciting debutants bantamweight Muhammad Ali and York super-welterweight George Davey.

A media event with the undercard boxers will take place in the near future.

Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and firstdirectarena.com Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

JOSH WARRINGTON will make the third defence of his IBF world featherweight title against France’s Sofiane Takoucht at First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday October 12, live on BT Sport.

Warrington (29-0, 6 KOs) will be returning to the venue he has lit up throughout his career and where he defeated then mandatory challenger Kid Galahad in June.

The big world title fight will be backed up with a magnificent undercard featuring some of the finest young talent in British boxing – all in title action.

Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight crown against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-4, 4KOs).

Leeds idol Jack Bateson, Barrett’s stablemate Lyndon Arthur and Troy Williamson will all challenge for their first professional championships on the bill.

Bateson (10-0, 3KOs) who sold £60,000 worth of ticket when he boxed on the Warrington-Galahad bill challenges Preston’s Michael Ramabeletsa (17-17, 8KOs) who will be making the first defence of his English super-bantamweight belt.

Manchester’s KO King, Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) who is being talked of as a future Anthony Yarde opponent faces Ghanian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight title, in a battle of the big hitters.

In the fifth championship clash Darlington’s Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs) takes a step up in class when he meets Rotherham’s Nav Mansouri (20-2-2, 6KOs) for the vacant WBO Intercontinental super-welterweight belt.

Warrington’s challenger Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs) is a former European champion and ranked fourth in the latest IBF rankings.

Warrington, 28, said: “From what I’ve seen, Takoucht is tough and got his IBF ranking through hard work.

“This is a massive opportunity for him. I have to stay focused and not take my eye off the ball because I am after the biggest fights in the division.”

Promoter Frank Warren explained: “We wanted to make the Oscar Valdez unification fight for Josh, but he is giving up the WBO title and moving up in weight.

“I know how much Josh wants the WBA champion, Leo Santa Cruz but he doesn’t seem keen right now.

“If you look at the IBF Ratings number one and two are vacant, and Takoucht was pretty much the next available contender.”

Warrington won his world title in an upset points win against defending champion Lee Selby in May 2018 when 25,000 fans packed into Elland Road to support him.

Last December he defied the bookies odds again when he thrashed two-weight world champion Carl Frampton on points in his maiden defence. He followed that up with the Galahad victory.

Warrington turned professional in October 2009 and before winning a world championship he captured English, British, Commonwealth, European and WBC International titles.

Takoucht is on a eight fight winning streak and won the IBF International title to earn his place among the world’s top featherweights.

Southpaw Takoucht, 33, said: “When the call came to travel to Leeds and challenge Josh I said, ‘yes’ straight away. It’s a chance to beat the best featherweight in the world.

“He beat Lee Selby when nobody thought he could win and then a great fighter, Carl Frampton. It was close against Kid Galahad, but he found a way to win.

“I am sure he will look at me and think I am easier than his last three opponents, but I won’t let this opportunity go. Get ready for a shock.”

Besides the FIVE title fights, also boxing on the show will be Willy Hutchinson (9-0, 6KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0).

Exciting prospects, bantamweight Muhammad Ali and Henry Wharton trained York super-welterweight George Davey make their professional debuts.

Tickets for the October 12 show go on sale from 2pm today (Weds August 7) and are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and Firstdirectarena.com. Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

ARCH rivals Josh Warrington and Carl Frampton are joined as one over the big Daniel Dubois v Nathan Gorman showdown.

IBF featherweight champion Warrington won a brutal thriller on points against Frampton and they’re expecting another explosive clash when unbeaten pair Dubois (11-0, 10 KOs) and Gorman (16-0, 11 KOs) clash.

And the pair are unanimous that it’s Dubois who will have his hand raised in victory when the vacant British heavyweight championship is on the line at London’s o2 Arena on Saturday July 13.

“What a fight we have to look forward to when Nathan and Daniel fight,” purred Warrington who recently successfully defended his world crown against Kid Galahad.

Warrington added: “They have two different styles, both big punchers, both prospects and a British title on line – it is going to be fantastic.

“It has got everyone talking and there are so many different opinions. It is 50-50, and I know plenty of people are leaning towards Nathan, but I am going with Dubois.

“He is devastating when he gets an opponent hurt and I think he can win early.”

Former two-weight world champion Frampton returns to action in August and hopes for a crack WBO title holder Oscar Valdez later in the year.

Frampton added:  “All credit to both boys for taking this fight so early in their careers.

“A loss doesn’t mean the end, far from it and especially when it is so early in their careers. I can see them, fighting again in the future.

“Gorman is slick, nice mover for a big heavyweight, but I fancy Dubois slightly although it’s a very good fight.”

Tickets for ‘Heavy Duty’ featuring Daniel Dubois v Nathan Gorman for the vacant British Heavyweight Title, plus Olympic silver medallist Joe Joyce v Bryant Jennings are on sale now. The show also features British Middleweight champion Liam Williams who clashes against France’s former European champion Karim Achour for the vacant WBC Silver middleweight crown. Super-flyweight sensation Sunny Edwards meets Mexican Hiram Gallardo for the vacant IBF super-flyweight title. WBO super-featherweight champion Archie Sharp risks his crown against Jordan McCorry. Returning after an impressive debut is Kent bantamweight Dennis McCann. Hamza Sheeraz, Mark Chamberlain, Jake Pettitt, Louie Lynn, Mickey Burke Jr and Florian Marku add to an exciting line up and tickets are available via AXS.com, Eventim and Ticketmaster and are priced as below:
 
£300 – (Hospitality)
£200 – Floor
£150 – Floor
£100 – Tier/Floor
£75 – Floor/Tier
£50 – Tier
£40 – Tier

Josh Warrington retained the IBF Featherweight title with a 12-round split decision over Kid Galahad at The First District Arena in Warrington’s hometown of Leeds, England.

Warrington of Leeds won by scores of 116-113 and 115-112.  Galahad of England took a card 115-113.

Warrington is now 29-0.  Galahad is 26-1.

Zelfa Barrett won a 12-round unanimous decision over Lyon Woodstock in a super featherweight bout.

Barrett won by scores of 118-110 and 117-111 twice and is now 22-1.  Woodstock is 12-2.

JJ Metcalf stopped former world title challenger Jason Welborn in round eight of their scheduled 12-round super welterweight bout.

In round eight, Metcalf was deducted a point for a low blow. He more than made that point up seconds later as he landed a vicious body shot that sent Welborn down for the count at 2:25.

Metcalf is 20-0 with 12 knockouts. Welborn is 24-8.

Shakiel Thompson won a six-round decision Alistair Warren in a super middleweight fight.

Thompson won by a referee score of 59-55, and is now 4-0. Warren is 11-24-5.

The following is the running order for this evenings Leeds show-

(Subject to change)

Fight # 1 – 16:00 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest
JACK MCGANN V KEV MCAULEY

Fight # 2
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Light Heavyweight Contest
KODY DAVIES V HARRY MATTHEWS

Fight # 3
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
TROY WILLIAMSON V EDWIN PALACIOS

Fight # 4
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
ALEX DICKINSON V KAMIL SOKOLOWSKI

Fight # 5
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
LYNDON ARTHUR V ANDRZEJ SOLDRA

Fight # 6
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
MARK HEFFRON V DANIEL URBANSKI

Fight # 7
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Bantamweight Contest
JACK BATESON V BAYARDO RAMOS

Floater- Pre-TV
4 x 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
JOHN JOYCE V VICTOR EDAGBA

BT LlVE BROADCAST COMMENCES AT 20:00 HRS
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Fight # 8- 20:05 hrs
6×3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
SHAKIEL THOMPSON V ALISTAIR WARREN

Fight # 9
THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH SUPER-WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12×3 Minute Rounds @154lbs
JJ METCALF V JASON WELBORN

Fight # 10
THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 130 lbs
ZELFA BARRETT V LYON WOODSTOCK

Fight # 11
THE IBF WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12×3 Minute Rounds @126 lbs
JOSH WARRINGTON V KID GALAHAD