Josh Warrington set for September title defence in Leeds

Leeds boxing sensation Josh Warrington will defend his WBC International and Commonwealth Featherweight title this September in front of a bumper hometown crowd at the First Direct Arena.

He will take on Australian Joel Brunker on September 5, with the bout screened live on Sky Sports.

It will be Warrington’s third defence of the title he claimed in Hull in November 2013, and will look to add the challenger to the impressive scalps of Rendall Munroe and Martin Lindsay.

Josh said: “I’m delighted to be defending my Commonwealth title at the First Direct Arena again - it’s my home and Joel Brunker is the perfect opponent for me.

“I think it will be a very good fight against Brunker, he’s a come forward fighter, busy and will make it difficult for me - but I’m ready for whatever he can bring.

“I’m confident I can put on a vintage performance and go one better. I was happy for Lee to win the World title, good on him – but I’m not thinking about him yet, Brunker has my full attention. It’s another significant step-up for me, but every time I’ve stepped up a level, I’ve won titles and delivered – from British, European, Commonwealth and now heading to World level.”

Last time Josh fought in Leeds he drew a sellout crowd and was memorably walked into the ring with Leeds United legend Vinnie Jones.

He added: “Since my last fight I’ve had some much needed time off. I boxed in Berlin and Leeds in quick succession.

“To be honest I haven’t had a break from camp since the European Title fight against Davide Dieli. It’s given me some time to focus on my house and get engaged to my girlfriend in Mexico - my batteries are fully recharged and I’m raring to go.

“I can’t wait, I’ve got such a buzz already in training. The whole city will be buzzing with the news and I can’t wait to hear the crowd roar me on to victory on September 5.”

Tickets go on general sale from midday on Wednesday July 1 on 0844 248 1585 and at www.firstdirectarena.com

TALE OF THE TAPE

Boxer Joel Brunker has notched up an impressive record.

The Aussie competed at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens.

He was stopped in the first round of the men’s bantamweight division by bronze medallist Aghasi Mammadov.

Since turning pro he has won 26 of 27 fights, with Welsh champion Lee Selby the only man to beat him.