Mauricio Lara knew that his challenge against Leigh Wood this weekend in Nottingham would not be easy. The Mexican came to British soil ready to leave everything in the ring and became the new World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion with a technical knockout in seven rounds. 

A spectacular left hook to Wood’s chin ended a fight that had been difficult for “Bronco” up to that moment and although the home fighter tried to recover, his corner threw in the towel due to his poor physical condition. 

It was a fight in which Lara had to adapt. At the beginning he was able to connect some good punches to Wood but the British managed to impose his style since the third round, anticipating the attacks of the Mexican and winning rounds thanks to his volume of punches, his speed and his advantage in range.

However, Lara did not stop insisting and knew perfectly well what his punching power could do, it was just a matter of finding a way. The new champion was chasing Wood, looking to connect with power punches and it was in the seventh round that he managed to hit that left hook and send the local to the canvas in a dramatic way. 

The “Bronco” proved, once again, to be a devastating fighter and won again on English soil, a place that is not easy for any fighter. The 24-year-old monarch fulfilled his promise and now owns the belt of the pioneer body after a great performance.

It was the 26th victory in the career of the Mexican, who has 2 defeats, 1 draw and 19 knockouts. Wood, who gave a worthy fight despite his defeat, leaves his record at 26 wins, 3 setbacks and 16 knockouts.