By Joe Hewlett
Josh Warrington is prepared to commence battle with former world champion Kiko Martinez on May 13.
The pair will cross paths at the First Direct Arena in Leeds with it being Warrington’s first outing as part of the Frank Warren stable. It will be the seventh time the featherweight has fought at the Direct Arena in his hometown of Leeds.
The WBC International Featherweight champion has admitted that the big support he receives from the city always inspires him to perform when in the ring.
He told the Yorkshire Voice: “The crowd always gives me a massive boost no matter what – it’s the equivalent of having the so called ‘twelfth man’ in football. The atmosphere can be hostile for my opponents and I know in the past it has messed with my opponent’s heads.
“It can affect the opponent’s movements in the ring and their game plan. The fans give me that extra boost in terms of motivation to perform and create a great night of entertainment.”
Josh Warrington talks about boxing and the upcoming bout
Warrington will not be the only boxer from Leeds performing on the night though as double gold-medalist Nicola Adams has also been added to the card.
Many within the boxing community were left shocked after Warren announced Adams would be joining his ranks. In recent years gone by, the promoter had admitted that he was not interested in women’s boxing in the slightest.
However, after another stunning performance in the Olympics of 2016, Warren converted and has revealed his admiration for the superstar.
“She’s turned me and I’m absolutely delighted with the signing of Nicola Adams. She’s one of the most famous personalities in the country so she brings another audience and to have her as part of my stable is brilliant. Got boxing off the ground in Manchester many years ago, same with Liverpool and Scotland, but boxing is already off the ground in Leeds.
“My job is to deliver for Josh and I hope after May 13 we can deliver a world title fight at Ellend Road for Josh.”