Josh Warrington takes aim after world title decision as Leeds United supporter left 'frustrated'
Josh Warrington has spoken of his 'disappointment and frustration' at not being able to fight for the IBF world title this weekend.
Warrington returns to the ring on Saturday night when he faces Anthony Cacace on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s huge world heavyweight showdown against Daniel Dubois at Wembley. This will be the first time the huge Leeds United supporter has fought since he lost to Leigh Wood last year.
However, Cacace's IBF world super-featherweight title will not be on the line because the sanctioning body does not consider Warrington a challenger because of his inactivity in the super-featherweight division and was subsequently unranked.
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"It's come to light today, but we have known for a while that the IBF world super-featherweight title will not be on the line anymore for my fight with Anthony Cacace this Saturday night,” Warrington said.
"The IBO belt will still be on the line. Nothing really changes in terms of my mindset. We are still going in there to win. It's still a fight.
"Frustrated, disappointed. Yes, I am. After being a two-time IBF featherweight world champion and having six world title fights with the IBF, plenty of dosh being made in sanctioning fees.
"I am disappointed I am not able to fight for this after being given the green light initially. They moved the goal posts at the last minute."
Before he added: “It’s an honour to be part of such a spectacle, such a big show. Like you say, I’ve done many, many big shows up in Leeds – arenas and stadiums, but this is another level.
“All of that doesn’t matter. What it comes down to is me and the man in front of me. I’ve got experience in being in big shows, but it’s just about me and Anthony, and that’s all I’m focused on at the minute.
“I think throughout my career the chips have always been stacked against me for whatever reason, but when my back is against the wall, it seems to bring the best out in me.
“I went into the last fight, even though I came away on the wrong side of the fight, it was a fight that I was dominating. This one, people might be overlooking me a little bit, but I’m fully focused, and I know I’ve got enough to get the W.
“I can’t cry over spilt milk, but I probably should have done it a few years ago (moved up in weight). These extra few pounds, it might not sound like a lot to a lot of people, but I feel absolutely fantastic. It’s the best I’ve felt in a long time.”