A fight billed as repeat or revenge, one of this weekend’s biggest questions is whether Leigh Wood can avenge his defeat to Mauricio Lara and win back his world title.
Lara brutally stopped Wood after seven rounds three months ago, and the Mexican travels over to England for the fourth time in just over two years seeking to make a successful first defence of his WBA title.
‘Bronco’ has established himself as one of the divisions’ most dangerous punchers and proven that his upset victory over Josh Warrington in 2021 was no fluke.
The 25-year-old seems willing to go toe-to-toe with anyone on the planet at the moment, backing his power to overcome each of his opponents. But what’s more impressive is his comfortability and patience in the ring, which has come as a result of his twenty-nine professional fights despite his relatively young age.
Wood was outboxing Lara back in February, leading 59-55 on one card at the time of the stoppage, yet the Mexican remained calm and composed, waiting for his opportunity, and boy did he take it when the champion made a mistake.
The fearless puncher landed an earth-shattering left-hook as soon as the home fighter dropped his right-hand, sending him to the canvas in front of his hometown fans.
This time out, Lara is tipped to do the same, heading into the bout as a clear favourite. However, Wood has proven time and time again that he relishes the role of the underdog.
Wood has upset the odds on numerous occasions, most notably against Can Xu and Michael Conlan in his successful challenge and defence of the WBA (Regular) title, which was later upgraded to the full world title. Lara has previously shown vulnerability to the body, being visibly hurt against Emilio Sanchez last year, but still managing to fight through the pain claim a third-round knockout victory.
The other possible weakness that Wood will look to exploit his Lara’s relatively unproven ‘gas tank’, especially due to suspicions that he could be tight at the 126lb weight limit. Meanwhile, the Brits’ last five victories have come by stoppages in round 9-12, proving that he grows into fights and always manages to finish strong.
There’s no doubt fans are in for a high-octane contest.
How Can I Watch Lara vs Wood 2?
The event will be available to watch on DAZN, at no extra cost to the standard subscription fee. If you do not have a subscription and wish to watch the fight, you can sign up here.
Where Is Lara vs Wood 2?
The fight will take place at the AO Arena in Manchester, England.
When does Lara vs Wood 2 Start?
The card gets underway at 7pm (BST), with the ring walks for the main event scheduled to take place around 10pm (BST).
Lara vs Wood 2 Undercard
- Jack Catterall (26-1) vs Darragh Foley (22-4-1) – Super-Lightweight
- Terri Harper (13-1-1) vs Ivana Habazin (21-4) – Super-Welterweight (WBA World Title)
- Danny Ball (12-1-1) vs Jamie Robinson (15-5-2) – Welterweight (English Title)
- Aqib Fiaz (11-0) vs Costin Ion (10-3-2) – Super-Featherweight
- Campbell Hatton (11-0) vs Michal Bulik (6-2) – Super-Lightweight
- Aaron Bowen (1-0) vs Aljaz Venko (5-3-1) – Middleweight
- William Crolla (debut) vs Joe Hardy (2-9) – Super-Welterweight
