Josh Warrington’s second reign as world champion was a brief one as he was defeated by Luis Alberto Lopez inside a congested First Direct Arena in Leeds.
The Mexican star, fighting in Britain for a second time, went home with the IBF featherweight strap after judges scored the bout in his favour with totals of 115-113 x 2 alongside a 114-114 card.
Lopez started the bout impressively and he looked to have a healthy lead by the halfway stage as Warrington failed to get to grips with Lopez’s awkward style.
Warrington’s lengthy career looked to be catching up with him as the fight moved into the second half, but his championship experience would be vital as he looked to close the gap.
From the ninth session onwards, Warrington demonstrated the type of form that brought him great wins over the likes of Lee Selby and Carl Frampton.
Lopez looked lost at various stages, but he refused to wilt as Warrington pushed hard in the last few rounds.
Despite the spirited comeback, it wasn’t enough as the three judges went in favour of Lopez by the narrowest of margins.
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