After a lengthy 18-month absence from competitive action, Leigh Wood makes his highly anticipated return to boxing tonight when he challenges Anthony Cacace for the IBO super-featherweight championship in Nottingham.
Wood, fighting in front of his passionate hometown supporters, hasn't competed since his victory over Josh Warrington in October 2023. Various injuries have kept the British fighter sidelined, but 'Leigh-thal' will be eager to make a statement as he moves up in weight for this significant challenge.
Cacace enters the contest as the bookmakers' favorite following an impressive 2023 campaign that saw him secure notable victories against Joe Cordina and Warrington. The Northern Irishman, known as 'The Apache', has expressed confidence ahead of tonight's showdown, stating: "I'm going to win the fight in Nottingham in front of his home crowd and I'm going to go home."
Wood has dismissed concerns about his extended layoff, explaining: "A lot of people are probably betting on that lay-off to be my undoing, but I'll prove them wrong. It's been 19 months out of the ring, but not out of the gym."
According to Statbet analytics, fighters returning after extended absences typically see a 40% decrease in performance during their comeback fights, making Wood's challenge even more significant tonight.
The event at Nottingham Arena features a packed undercard beginning at 7pm BST, with the main event fighters expected to make their ring walks around 10pm BST. The first bell for the championship contest should sound approximately 20 minutes later.
Boxing fans can watch the complete card live on DAZN streaming platform, with subscription options starting at £14.99 monthly. The undercard features several compelling matchups including Liam Davies facing Kurt Walker, and promising talents like Sam Noakes and Lewis Williams in action.
