Josh Warrington Promises To Bounce Back Following Upset Loss To Mauricio Lara
On February 13, Josh Warrington (30-1, 7 KOs) was looking to get back into the swing of things. Having vacated the IBF World Featherweight title, the 30-year-old stepped in the ring to face unknown Mexican Mauricio Lara (22-2, 15 KOs). Fighting for the first time in 16 months, he viewed Lara as a mere stepping stone in pursuit of big-money fights. Things did not go as planned for Warrington. He was knocked down twice and ultimately stopped by Lara in nine rounds at Wembley Arena in Wembley, England. The shocking result is an early candidate for 2021’s upset of the year.
Lara was stronger and more powerful from the onset. A considerable underdog going in, the 22-year-old from Mexico City hurt Warrington early and often. He overwhelmed the Brit with his physical strength and punching power. The product of Leeds, England was battered and beaten up. To compound matters, a post-fight examination revealed that he suffered a fractured eye socket, a perforated eardrum, and a damaged shoulder.
LICKING HIS WOUNDS
Crestfallen, the former world featherweight champ has decided to give his take on the fight. On February 15, he released a statement to his promoters, Matchroom Boxing. Despite this setback, he still believes he is among the very best at 126 pounds.
“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.
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.
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.”
Warrington says he will see a specialist this week to examine the shoulder. He gave no further updates on the other injuries suffered in the fight.
Congratulations were given to Lara. While Warrington says he would not turn down a rematch, his goal is winning another world title.
“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.”
This is a devastating setback. The physical and mental recovery will take some time for sure. In just one fight, the self-described “Leeds Warrior” is now suddenly at a crossroads in his career.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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