Kiko Martinez to Defend IBF Featherweight Title Against Josh Warrington in Rematch!
On March 26, IBF featherweight champion Kiko “La Sensacion” Martinez (43-10-2, 30KOs) and former IBF featherweight champion Josh “The Leeds Warrior” Warrington (30-1-1, 7KOs) will square off in a rematch. Their first encounter took place in May of 2017, with Warrington winning by majority decision.
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This unlikely rematch is coming on the heels of Martinez’s big upset over Kid Galahad (28-2, 17KOs) in November of 2021. At 35 years old, Martinez for the time being has turned the clock back. For Warrington, this is a huge opportunity for him to get back in the mix for bigger fights at featherweight.
Before being brutally stopped by Mauricio Lara in nine rounds, Warrington made three successful defenses of his IBF title. In a rematch with Lara, the fight appeared to be yet again going in the Mexican’s favor. That was until a clash of heads opened a bad cut over the left eye of Lara, resulting in the fight being stopped in the second round as a technical draw.
A PICK’EM FIGHT!
At this point in both men’s careers, this is a truly competitive fight. As was their initial fight, considering the ups and downs of Warrington, he may come into this fight as a slight favorite. Moreover, something to watch out for is the punch resistance of Warrington. Martinez, even up there in age, can still crack. Plus, Warrington is only one fight removed since being stopped. One has to wonder if his chin will hold up against the power of the Argentinian champion. Cite Galahad, who was dropped twice in their fight before being knocked out cold in the sixth round.
When it’s all said and done, this should turn out to be a solid scrap between two good fighters. With a lot on the line, I expect both men to be at their absolute best.
By: Jerrell Fletcher
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