Leigh Wood and Mauricio Lara will feature in one of the most anticipated fights of the first quarter of the year. The clash of styles between the World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion and his Mexican challenger promises to be a great fight this Saturday at the Nottingham Arena in Nottingham. 

The home fighter has recovered from the shoulder injury that prevented him from stepping into the ring to defend his crown last November. Now, he will return home to showcase the black and gold belt at a major event. 

In July 2021, he defeated former champion Can Xu to win the 126-pound belt after an exceptional performance. His first defense against Michael Conlan in March 2022 was one of the most impressive fights of the year and his 11th round knockout after being knocked down early on was impressive. 

Lara is the challenger of the year and a very interesting one. He has Mexican blood, excellent physical condition, an aggressive profile and is a guarantee of showmanship. He already has experience fighting in the UK, where he defeated Josh Warrington in March 2021 and then got a technical draw against the same opponent in September of that same year because of a cut that prevented him from continuing. 

The week’s schedule will be full of activities, including a public training session on Wednesday, the official press conference on Thursday and the weigh-in on Friday. 

Wood has 26 wins, 2 losses and 16 knockouts, while “Bronco” Lara has 25 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw and 18 knockouts.