Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara Preview & Prediction

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THE FACTS

Where is Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara taking place? SSE Arena, London, England

When is Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara on and what time does it start? Saturday 13^th February, 2021 – 22:00 (UK)

Where can I get tickets for Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara? Visit this link for the latest ticket information

What channel is Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara on? Sky Sports Arena and Sky Sports Main Event

Where can I stream Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara? Sky Sports subscribers can stream the fight via the Sky Sports website

THE LOWDOWN

Unbeaten featherweight star Josh Warrington (30-0, 7 KOs) is back in the ring for the first time since October 2019 when he successfully defended the IBF featherweight title for the third time courtesy of a second round KO win again Sofiane Takoucht. The Yorkshireman was hoping to face WBA title holder Xu Can in a unification bout this month, but Warrington faced huge disappointment when Can pulled out of the fight. He has now relinquished his IBF belt as they were instant that he would have to face mandatory challenger Kid Galahad if he were to win this bout.

Mexican boxer Mauricio Lara (22-2, 15 KOs) is fighting outside of his own country for just the second time in his career. Lara has been more active recently than his English opponent as he has fought five times since Warrington was last in the ring. He has racked up ten consecutive wins since his last defeat in May 2018 but this contest against Warrington represents a big step in up class for the 22-year-old.

THE PREDICTION

Josh Warrington is of course delighted to be back in action, but on the flip side he is also hugely deflated at having been denied the chance to fight WBA champion Xu Can, so the former IBF featherweight champion surely won’t be as highly-motivated as he usually is heading into this bout. The fact that this contest is taking place without fans present is another negative factor for the boxer from Leeds as he is used to fighting in front of his boisterous supporters. Despite all of this, it would be a huge shock if Warrington were to slip up and lose against Mauricio Lara. The Mexican fighter looks set to be a determined and durable opponent though, so there may be some value in backing this contest to go the distance.

Prediction: Fight to go the distance - CLICK HERE FOR PARIMATCH'S WELCOME OFFER (BET £5, GET £30 IN BONUSES!)