Josh Warrington says he has “rolled back the years” ahead of Leigh Wood rematch

Their first meeting in October 2023 saw Warrington take control early before Wood stopped him in the seventh round. Warrington’s ability to dictate those opening rounds has remained a reference point in the buildup to the rematch, and his comments suggest he believes he can return to that level over a full fight rather than allowing the momentum to turn. He spoke calmly at the weigh-in, showing no hesitation as he faced Wood again in front of a crowd expected to support the hometown fighter.

Both fighters made weight without issue ahead of Saturday’s bout. Warrington weighed 129.7 pounds, slightly below Wood’s 129.8 pounds, confirming the rematch will proceed in front of a sold-out crowd in Nottingham. The location ensures Warrington will enter as the visiting fighter, facing a crowd that had rallied behind Wood during their first encounter and will expect a repeat result.

Warrington acknowledged the circumstances but maintained his focus on the result.

“Leigh Wood has had a brilliant career, but The Leeds Warrior is here and will be walking away with a victory,” Warrington said. “Revenge is sweet.”

His insistence that he has “rolled back the years” places his condition at the center of the rematch, with the fight determining whether that version of Warrington can still impose itself when the opening bell sounds.