Fans once again turned out in force at the First Direct Arena to witness Josh Warrington gain a stunning victory over deadly opponent Patrick Hyland. The bout on the 30th July was dubbed as Warrington’s toughest test to date with Hyland’s reputation of 30 wins preceding him. However, Josh’s determination and hard work during his training camp paid off as it was clear during round 1 that he had the fight in the bag.
Keeping his defence tight, Josh used his trademark precision and top class footwork to pick Hyland apart, who by the ninth round could not keep up with the barrage from the Leeds Warrior. The referee called a stop to the bout with Hyland on his knees unable to continue.
Speaking after the fight, Josh said “Patrick has been giving me nightmares for weeks, he is a very tough man and hits hard. The first couple of rounds I thought ‘I have to keep my hands up and stay switched on.’ I think my overall performance, the boxing and the shots I picked, I wasn’t reckless, listened to my corner – it paid off in the end.”
Josh was clearly ecstatic with his win, and his focus once again turned to Lee Selby saying “If he wants it he can have it!” Josh also stated that he would be prepared to travel to make this much anticipated match up.
Much to the delight of the crowd, promoter Eddie Hearn said “I disagree with Josh. I think the world title shot should be here in Leeds. He has built up a base here for a long time and everyone has supported him. The natural progression now is to fight for a world title, I don’t think there are any more steps. He has fought some top ranked fighters, developed as a fighter and has got the best fan base in the UK. Leeds is where the world title has to come and if Lee Selby wants to fight, he is a great champion and we can do that in November here no problem at all.”
The team behind the Leeds Warrior are clearly thrilled with such an emphatic win too. Speaking on behalf of the whole team, Nick Manners, co-trainer said “Taking on recent world title challenger Patrick Hyland was generally viewed as the ultimate acid test and the hardest fight of his career. Josh boxed superbly, dismantling a brave and gallant opponent who ultimately could not keep up with the terrific pace set by his Yorkshire foe. Team Warrington would like to thank all the fantastic supporters for following Josh on his journey towards his dream of winning a world title. Now he can concentrate on marrying his ever supportive fiancée Natasha.”
I’m sure all our readers will join the team at the Yorkshire Reporter in congratulating Josh on such a fantastic victory, and sending him best wishes as he ties the knot this month!