The clash between Anthony Cacace (23-1, 8 KOs) and Leigh Wood (28-3, 17 KOs) is igniting excitement for what promises to be an all-out war on May 10th in Nottingham.
With both fighters known for their crowd-pleasing styles, it’s tough to see this being anything other than a thriller. Cacace, an Irish southpaw, made the bold choice to vacate his IBF junior lightweight title, stating that he wanted bigger fights that truly motivate him. He’s found that in Wood, a tough former WBA featherweight champion who’s itching to end his long layoff.
Wood will have the hometown advantage and a track record of memorable battles, including victories over Michael Conlan and Josh Warrington. However, “Leigh-thal” has been out of action since October 2023 - a considerable gap in a career already peppered with two stoppage defeats. Meanwhile, Cacace was last seen in the ring this past September, racking up a decision win against Warrington. Despite having just one loss on his record, Cacace has yet to be halted, suggesting Wood has a serious challenge ahead if he aims to score another dramatic finish.
Watch Cacace vs. Warrington highlights: Watch
Both men are in their mid-30s - Cacace turned 36 earlier this month, while Wood will be 37 in August - leading some to wonder if the punishing wars they’ve fought might catch up to them. Cacace’s ability to mix pressure with technical skill has made him a fan favorite, and his willingness to stand and trade could play perfectly into Wood’s approach.
Will Wood’s lengthy absence affect his timing? Will Cacace regret relinquishing his world title for this risky showdown? How will each fighter’s war-torn body hold up if the bout turns into a drawn-out slugfest? We will get the answers pretty soon.
Fight card:
▪️Anthony Cacace vs. Leigh Wood, 12 rounds, for the IBO World super featherweight title
▪️Liam Davies vs. Kurt Walker, 12 rounds, featherweight
▪️Ezra Taylor vs. Troy Jones, 10 rounds, light heavyweight
▪️Owen Cooper vs. Chris Kongo, 10 rounds, welterweight
▪️Sam Noakes vs. TBA, 8 rounds, lightweight
▪️Lewis Williams vs. TBA, 6 rounds, heavyweight
▪️Charlie Senior vs. TBA, 6 rounds, featherweight
▪️Nico Leivars vs. TBA, 6 rounds, super bantamweight
▪️Joe Cooper vs. TBA, 4 rounds, middleweight
▪️Huey Malone vs. TBA, 4 rounds, TBA
▪️Joe Tyers vs. TBA, 4 rounds, TBA
▪️Harris Akbar vs. TBA, 4 rounds, super welterweight
