In the heart of Nottingham, UK, the stage is set for an electrifying rematch between two featherweight titans. Leigh Wood, aged 37, boasting a record of 28-4 with 17 KOs, is gearing up to face Josh Warrington, aged 35, with a record of 32-4-1 and 8 KOs, on February 21, 2026. This highly anticipated bout is a follow-up to their October 2023 clash, where Wood secured a dramatic 7th-round knockout victory.
Wood, a former WBA featherweight champion known for his late-fight power, is eager to prove that his previous victory was no fluke. Warrington, a former two-time IBF champion, is hungry for redemption and aims to avenge his 2023 loss. The Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham is sold out, with fans eagerly awaiting the ‘Last Man Standing’ rematch, a fight that has been over two years in the making.
Wood exudes confidence, stating that he is ready to deliver an even more convincing performance this time around. He acknowledges Warrington’s conditioning and punching volume but sees these as opportunities for his own power shots. Wood is determined to leave no room for excuses, aiming for a quicker and more decisive victory.
‘He [Josh] gets himself into tremendous shape,’ said Wood. ‘He has a great engine and throws a lot of punches. But that gives someone like me great opportunities. Styles make fights. Whether I lose two rounds, three rounds, it doesn’t matter because I’ve always got that big punch in my locker. I will struggle to do a better job this time but I would like it to be more convincing – and I’d like to do an even quicker job.’
Warrington, on the other hand, is focused on avoiding the mistakes of their previous encounter. He admits to diving in recklessly last time, which cost him dearly. Warrington has spent the past two years preparing for this rematch and feels stronger than ever. His game plan is simple: stay disciplined and avoid Wood’s power shots.
‘The game plan? Don’t get caught!’ said Warrington. ‘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 been waiting ever since to jump back into this fight – and some two years later, it’s finally arrived. I’ve just got to concentrate on what I do well and stay switched on for every single second.’
The undercard for this featherweight showdown promises to be equally thrilling, featuring a vacant WBC World title fight and a title defense bout. As the countdown to February 21 continues, the anticipation and excitement among boxing fans worldwide are palpable. This rematch is not just about settling a score; it’s about two warriors leaving everything in the ring and proving who the last man standing truly is.
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