Josh Warrington Details Retirement Reversal Before Leigh Wood Showdown
Josh Warrington has opened up about his decision to return to boxing, less than two years after he believed his career was effectively over. The former world champion retired following a defeat to Anthony Cacace in 2024, but has since reversed that choice and now faces a pivotal rematch with Leigh Wood.
From Retirement to Redemption: Warrington's Journey
Warrington laid down his gloves on the Wembley canvas after losing to Cacace, a symbolic gesture that marked his retirement from the sport. At that moment, having suffered his third consecutive defeat, he was convinced his time at the top level had come to an end. However, just 17 months later, he is preparing for a comeback fight that he hopes will catapult him back into championship contention.
"I was retired for three weeks; I didn't officially announce it but I was mourning my career for a little bit," Warrington explained. "I decided to continue because I felt like I had more than enough to do more in this sport, even though I've achieved so much. I've made loads of great memories over the years but I keep getting better and better in the gym."
Confidence and Preparation for the Rematch
Warrington expressed strong confidence in his current form, citing both physical and mental improvements. "I've got a more mature mindset and physically the numbers are getting better and stronger," he said. "I've had a kick up the backside, I feel fantastic and I'm going to show that on the night."
The first fight between Warrington and Wood in 2023 saw Warrington ahead on all three judges' scorecards after six rounds. However, he was dropped and ultimately stopped by Wood, who retained his featherweight world title. This rematch, set in Nottingham, will only feature bragging rights, but Warrington is focused on redemption.
"I can't see what Leigh can do differently," Warrington added. "He tried to punch me in the first fight; we boxed him, we outfought him, we did everything we had to do but we left ourselves open. He caught me with a fantastic shot and five clean ones after that and it was over. We know what not to do this time around and what to press him with and I'm very confident the fight will go early."
Warrington's return highlights his resilience and determination to prove that his career is far from finished, setting the stage for an intense and highly anticipated boxing event.
