Michael Conlan has offered his perspective on the upcoming main event at Nottingham Arena this Saturday, featuring Anthony Cacace versus Leigh Wood. Having faced Wood and knowing Cacace from years in the sport, the Belfast fighter is uniquely positioned to weigh in on how the bout might unfold.
It was at this very venue in 2022 that Conlan challenged Wood for the WBA featherweight championship. Conlan managed to drop the home fighter early and found success through several rounds, but ultimately tired. Wood, demonstrating resilience, rallied to secure a dramatic stoppage victory in the 12th round.
Even with his personal experience of Wood`s capabilities, Conlan is well aware of what Anthony `Andytown Apache` Cacace brings to the fight scheduled for May 10th. He`s familiar with Cacace from competing on similar circuits and training in the same gyms over the years.
According to Conlan, “Anto enters this fight with significant momentum, consistent activity, and the mindset of a champion. I anticipate Anto winning decisively, potentially by knockout, as he possesses considerable punching power.”
Michael believes key advantages like punching power, technical skills, and recent fight momentum favor Cacace. Conlan himself went on to challenge Luis Alberto Lopez for the IBF title following his defeat to Wood.
In contrast, Leigh Wood has had limited activity since his victory over Josh Warrington in October 2023. Conlan feels this layoff is significant and that Cacace`s more consistent recent fighting schedule will result in better ring sharpness.
Conlan reflected on his fight with Wood, stating, “Looking back, I likely absorbed harder punches earlier in the fight than the one that ultimately stopped me. The finish was more a result of exhaustion.” He noted he had sparred with Cacace, who is known for hitting hard, during his preparation for facing Wood.
Comparing the two, Conlan commented, “I view their punching power as roughly equal. Regarding skillset, Leigh isn`t particularly known for high technical skill, but he compensates with toughness, grit, resilience, and deep determination.”
“Occasionally, the fight venue can influence things, especially if there`s animosity, but this fight doesn`t seem to have that heated build-up. I believe Anto will enter the ring and secure the victory,” he concluded.
