A passionate home crowd can be invaluable in boxing, particularly during the intense championship rounds or even earlier. Leigh Wood understands this better than most, recalling how he managed to get back on his feet after being knocked down heavily by Michael Conlan in the very first round of their world title fight over three years ago.
Now, Wood is set to face another formidable Irish fighter, Anthony Cacace, this Saturday evening in an IBO title contest. The support from the Nottingham crowd will once again be essential to help their man navigate the challenge.
“They`ve been crucial in some of my fights. The Conlan fight, they literally picked me up off the canvas,” Wood explained at the final press conference earlier today, after the arena was described as a `wolf pit`.
He continued, “I just feel like they give me an extra gear on fight night. Hearing `Mull of Kintyre` when I walk out, and during those rounds where I`ve taken shots to the head but managed to turn the fight around – they`ve contributed massively to that. Hopefully, they won`t have to do that for me this Saturday night, but they will lift me during the ring walk and help bring out my best.”
Although Wood hasn`t stepped into a boxing ring for a competitive fight since late 2023, he`s confirmed he`s been consistently working in the gym.
“My life is purely about boxing. I`m completely dedicated to my craft. I`ve been this way for over 20 years and will continue until I retire,” he stated.
While Cacace maintains that the crowd will not influence the outcome in the ring, he noted there`s no ill will between the two boxers. Wood echoed the sentiment of “no beef,” seeing Saturday night strictly as a professional engagement.
“I`m actually going to feel bad beating him,” Wood added with a grin.
