In the unpredictable theatre of professional boxing, some rivalries refuse to fade. Two-and-a-half years after their electrifying first encounter, the specter of a rematch between Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan looms large. Wood, the victor of their initial, unforgettable clash, has now openly stated his willingness to step back into the ring with Conlan, provided the Irishman navigates his upcoming challenge against Jack Bateson.
A Fight for the Ages: The First Wood vs. Conlan Saga
Rewind to March 2022. Nottingham`s Leigh Wood, then holding the WBA (Regular) featherweight title, faced the undefeated, highly-touted Michael Conlan. Billed as Conlan`s ascent to superstardom, the narrative quickly shattered expectations. Conlan, with his slick amateur pedigree, dropped Wood in the very first round, seemingly setting the stage for a dominant victory.
However, what followed was a masterclass in resilience and a testament to Wood`s fighting spirit. Despite being significantly behind on the scorecards, Wood clawed his way back into the contest with relentless pressure and powerful shots. The turning point arrived dramatically in round 11 when Conlan hit the canvas. The twelfth round saw a furious onslaught from Wood, culminating in Conlan collapsing through the ropes, sealing a remarkable comeback knockout victory for Wood. It was a finish so brutal and decisive, yet so steeped in drama, that it instantly cemented its place as one of British boxing’s most enthralling encounters.
Divergent Paths Since That Fateful Night
Since their epic collision, both fighters have experienced the highs and lows that define a boxing career, albeit on vastly different trajectories.
Leigh Wood`s Rollercoaster Reign and Weight Class Shift
For Leigh Wood, the victory over Conlan propelled him into a higher echelon. He ascended to become a two-time world champion, enduring a captivating rivalry with Mauricio Lara, first losing his title via stoppage, only to reclaim it with a strategic masterclass in their immediate rematch. He then successfully defended against Josh Warrington before making the somewhat inevitable decision to vacate his featherweight title and move up to the super-featherweight division. His debut at the new weight, however, resulted in a loss to Anthony Cacace earlier this year, reminding everyone that new divisions bring new challenges.
Michael Conlan`s Quest for Redemption
Michael Conlan`s journey post-Wood has been more turbulent. After bouncing back with two victories, he faced another title challenge against Luis Alberto Lopez, losing by stoppage. A subsequent, shocking knockout defeat to Jordan Gill, a fighter many expected him to handle, led to widespread calls for the Irishman`s retirement. It was a stark reminder of boxing`s unforgiving nature and the delicate balance between ambition and physical toll.
However, Conlan, often referred to as `Irish Mick,` is not one to concede easily. He has since appointed Grant Smith as his new lead trainer, securing a win against Asad Asif Khan in March. Now, Conlan is set to headline in his hometown of Dublin, facing Jack Bateson for the WBC International featherweight title. This fight is more than just a title shot; it`s a crucial test of his renewed focus and a potential springboard back into meaningful contention.
Wood`s Terms: A Rematch on His Conditions?
Speaking to the press, Leigh Wood didn`t mince words regarding his interest in a potential rematch with Conlan. “The interest is there, I think it would always be a big fight, even bigger if he can get a few substantial wins together,” Wood stated. He acknowledges the demand but, as the victor of their last encounter, believes he holds the leverage.
“I won the first fight, and I don’t need the rematch, but if the interest is there and people want to see it, then being the victor of the first fight, I’d have the right to have the rematch on my terms.”
The primary sticking point, beyond Conlan proving himself against Bateson, appears to be the weight class. Wood`s move to super-featherweight was motivated by difficulties making the featherweight limit. While his future is clearly at 130 pounds, he hasn`t entirely ruled out a compromise. “My future is at super-featherweight unless it’s an offer I can’t refuse, me and Mick could possibly meet in the middle if it was to happen,” he mused, hinting at a potential catchweight bout that would add another layer of complexity to an already tantalizing prospect.
A Glimpse into the Crystal Ball: Conlan vs. Bateson and Beyond
Wood also offered his prediction for Conlan`s immediate challenge against Jack Bateson, a fight that will largely dictate the viability of any future rematch. “I don’t think it’s a ‘gimme’ fight, Bateson definitely has a chance. I think it’s hard to call, I’m going for a close points decision, either way,” Wood commented, a surprisingly neutral stance given their history.
And when pressed on the sensitive topic of Conlan`s recent chin issues, Wood`s response was delivered with a classic boxer`s wryness: “First time around, I couldn’t have had a worst start, against the best Michael Conlan that we have seen, and I still got the job done. Would his chin hold up against me? I guess we have to let history speak for itself.” It’s a subtle yet potent reminder of the power he possesses and the dramatic conclusion of their last encounter.
The Road Ahead: Dublin and the Potential for Chapter Two
Michael Conlan`s upcoming fight against Jack Bateson in Dublin is more than just another night in the ring; it`s a pivotal moment for his career. A convincing victory could not only secure the WBC International featherweight title but also re-establish his standing as a top contender, making a rematch with Leigh Wood an irresistible proposition for fans and promoters alike.
The thought of Wood and Conlan sharing a ring once more, particularly with the added narratives of redemption, shifting weight classes, and Wood`s proven stopping power, is enough to send shivers down any boxing enthusiast`s spine. While the first fight closed a chapter, Leigh Wood`s recent comments suggest that the book might just be due for a compelling sequel. All eyes will now be on Dublin, to see if Michael Conlan can pave the way for what promises to be another memorable night in boxing history.
