In the realm of Irish boxing, Anthony Cacace is poised to carve his name deeper into the annals of history. After clinching the IBF world title with a victory over Joe Cordina in May 2024, ‘The Apache’ embarked on a quest for both financial security and legendary status. His journey led him to vacate his world title and face formidable opponents like Josh Warrington and Leigh Wood, fights that not only bolstered his bank account but also enhanced his legacy.
Now, with his sights set firmly on legacy rather than wealth, Cacace is preparing for another shot at world title glory. The Belfast native is set to return to Dublin on March 14th, aiming to capture the WBA super featherweight gold. His motivation, he insists, has never been stronger.
“Previously, the focus was on financial gains,” Cacace admitted. “And yes, it’s been great—I have a home, and we’re comfortable—but now it’s about legacy. I want this championship more than anything.” A victory over current world champion Jazza Dickens would place Cacace in the esteemed company of Irish boxing legends such as Wayne McCullough, Steve Collins, Carl Frampton, Ryan Burnett, and Katie Taylor.
For Cacace, becoming a two-time world champion would be a monumental achievement, especially considering the struggles he faced early in his career to secure opportunities. A win in Dublin during St. Patrick’s week would be a crowning moment, but the Queensberry-mentored fighter believes there is still more to accomplish.
“Looking at the division, I believe I’m in the top ten. I should have a title again,” Cacace asserted. His opponent, Jazza Dickens, presents a unique challenge, both stylistically and emotionally. Dickens, who has lived and trained in Dublin and is deeply connected to the Irish boxing scene, adds a layer of familiarity to the contest.
“It almost feels like I’m fighting another Irish guy,” Cacace said. “He’s trained with people I know, he’s friends with fighters I’m close to. There’s nothing but respect.” However, respect won’t diminish the intensity once the bell rings. “At the end of the day, it’s about who wants it most—and I really, really want it,” Cacace declared.
Dickens, the 34-year-old WBA super featherweight champion, is equally determined to prove himself as the world’s best. After defeating highly-rated Olympic gold medallist Albert Batyrgaziev, Dickens is ready to face Cacace in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
“For me, it was like *Rocky IV*,” Dickens recalled. “I always wanted to have 100 fights and win a world title. I’ve seen a picture of John Conteh on the wall the first day I ever went into a boxing gym, and I said, ‘I want to win a world title like him.'”
As the stage is set for this high-stakes showdown, both fighters are driven by a deep-seated desire to etch their names into boxing lore. For Cacace, it’s about securing his legacy among the Irish greats, while Dickens aims to solidify his status as the world’s best super featherweight. The anticipation is palpable, and the boxing world waits with bated breath for what promises to be an unforgettable night in Dublin.
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