Mauricio Lara (26-2-1, 19 KOs) and Leigh Wood (26-3, 16 KOs) will square-off once again. It was announced during the DAZN broadcast of Joshua/Franklin that the pair will meet at Manchester Arena on May 27.
The WBA World Featherweight title will be on the line, Wood losing the belt via 7th round stoppage to Lara during their first duel in February. The towel was thrown in late in the round when Wood found himself in trouble after largely controlling the fight. There has been debate as to whether trainer Ben Davison was correct to pull the Nottingham man out in such an important fight, with such little time remaining.
However, Wood gets his chance at redemption headlining a card that will also feature Matchroom’s new signing, Jack Catterall. Promoter Eddie Hearn stood proudly with both men inside the ring at the 02 Arena, the duo now accustomed to fan-friendly fights since DAZN’s interception.
Little words were exchanged as both Lara and Wood faced off. Little are needed with the recent track-records of both fighters.
