After suffering a brutal knockout defeat at the hands of the Mexican earlier this year, there were doubts about the decision to pursue an immediate rematch just over three months later. However, with Lara relinquishing his world crown due to weight-related issues, Wood seized the opportunity and executed the smartest fight of his career to emerge triumphant via unanimous decision.
Despite concerns that Lara's weight advantage could pose a threat, it was Wood who dictated the bout. In the second round, he sent Lara to the canvas with a powerful uppercut followed by a left hook. Although Lara didn't appear significantly hurt, he failed to mount the expected response, and Wood never found himself under sustained pressure as he did in their initial encounter.
Rather than being perplexed by this unexpected turn of events, Wood and his team stayed focused on their game plan, knowing that only a lapse in concentration would jeopardize their sought-after redemption.
When the final bell rang, there was no doubt about the outcome. The judges scored the fight 118-109, 116-111, and 118-109 in favor of Wood.
With the victory, a potential matchup with Josh Warrington may now be on the horizon. Additionally, a unification bout with Luis Alberto Lopez becomes a possibility after Lopez's impressive fifth-round stoppage of Michael Conlan, successfully defending the IBF belt.
Leigh Wood's remarkable redemption serves as a testament to his determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
