Josh Warrington looking for success in Leeds; hopes Lee Selby goes on to win a world title
Thursday 25 September 2014 10:52, UK
Josh Warrington insists he will thrive on the “extra pressure” that comes with fighting in his own backyard as he looks to become European champion on October 4, live on Sky Sports.
Live Fight Night
The Leeds featherweight, currently unbeaten in 18 fights as a professional, will get the chance to impress in front of a local crowd when he takes on Italian Davide Dieli at the First Direct Arena.
Warrington has fought at the venue before, claiming the vacant British title to add to the Commonwealth one he already had in his possession with a points win over Martin Lindsay on a Wednesday night back in May.
This time around the talented 23-year-old will top a weekend Matchroom bill that also includes former world champion Ricky Burns, Hull lightweight Tommy Coyle and highly-rated Liverpudlian Callum Smith.
“It’s very exciting. I think we are going to be doubling the numbers that were there last time,” Warrington told Sky Sports after a public workout in Trinity Leeds.
“Last time it was on a Wednesday night. The crowd was still very lively then as well, despite it being on short notice and a school night, so to speak. A lot of people had to go to work the next day.
“This time it is on a weekend and it’s going to be very noisy. I can’t wait for it.
“It (fighting in his home city) does bring a little bit of extra pressure. But that gives me a kick up the backside. It makes me train that little bit harder because I know I’ve got to be switched on and focused.
“That bit of pressure spurs me on.”
Selby showdown
Warrington gets the chance to add to his collection of belts after Lee Selby vacated the European version to push on for further honours.
The Welshman faces Joel Brunker in an IBF eliminator in October and his domestic rival hopes he goes on to become a world champion – opening up the possibility of an-all British showdown between the pair at some stage.
“He set out of the traps first, now I’m trying to chase him down,” he said of Selby.
“Hopefully Lee goes on to win the world title, then who knows? Perhaps in 2015 or 2016 we can have a domestic world title fight at featherweight.
“I wish him the best of luck in his future fights. Hopefully down the line we can meet.”
Watch Josh Warrington's bid to win the European title, as well as Ricky Burns, Tommy Coyle and Callum Smith, LIVE on Sky Sports 2 HD from 8.30pm on Saturday, October 4
