Mauricio Lara Upsets Josh Warrington With a Stunning KO in Round 9

The Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara main event certainly stood true to its expectations. Both the fighters put on a thrilling show for the fans and garnered applause from several corners. However, it was Mauricio Lara who shook the combat sports fraternity with his performance as he derailed ‘The Leeds Warrior’s’ comeback.

Right from the first gong, the duo battered each other and landed colossal shots. ‘Bronco’ followed Warrington’s minute foot movements and attacked him constantly.

However, the former champ reverted with quick counter-attacks coupled with huge combinations. He attacked Lara with his premium jabs and slick right hooks. But, the Mexican boxer showcased a granite chin throughout this fight and didn’t let the Brit take control of him.

Lara even floored ‘The Leeds Warrior’ in round 4 of the fight with a magnetic left hook. As the latter regained a vertical base, the Mexican boxer attacked him with magnificent shots to the face, but the round ended there.

After that knockdown, Warrington fared substantially well and kept Lara on his toes. Both sides were looking to end proceedings as quickly as possible, which made for entertaining viewing. However, it was the 22-year-old who came out on top in unarguably his toughest career test.

As a result, he improved to 22 wins.

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What went wrong for Josh Warrington?

The Brit started off the bout on a wonderful note and kept control of the ring initially. However, in the subsequent rounds, he lost control and let the fight slide off his hands.

Warrington returned to the ring after a long 16-month layoff. A prime reason for his loss could be attributed to the inactivity and ring-rust he developed over the past few months.

However, ‘The Leeds Warrior’ can only be proud of his performance and take all the positives out of it. He still has a vast career lying ahead of him, and he’ll look to regain his featherweight gold as he seeks to remain active in the division.

It will be intriguing to see if he roots for a rematch with Lara or boxes anyone next in line. What did you make of the bout?