Josh Warrington says he is “hurting inside” after suffering the first defeat of his glittering professional career, but insists he will be back.
The Leeds Warrior was stopped in nine rounds by Mexican underdog Mauricio Lara at Wembley Arena on Saturday night.
Josh (now 30-1) took some fearful punishment from the heavy-handed Lara (22-2). He was knocked down heavily in the fourth round but somehow managed to survive until the latter stages of the bout. In the end though, his 22-year-old opponent was just too strong and too powerful.
Defeat is a dent
Now back home with his family, Warrington said: "Obviously, I’m hurting inside. I’ve lost my unbeaten record. That’s something I have treasured and it is a dent. Anyone who knows me can tell you I stand proud."
The 30-year-old will see a shoulder specialist this week - but it is not expected that or any of the other injuries he sustained on Saturday night will affect him moving forward. And once he is healed, a return to the ring will happen.
"I have a small, close-knit team around me and it will not be long before I am ready to start the climb back to the top of the Featherweight division," added Warrington.
"I may not have to prove myself to my fans, but I want to show them and my rivals that I still belong at the very highest level.
"Good luck to Mauricio Lara who is a serious opponent for anybody. He is heavy-handed and holds power that will trouble any Featherweight.
Josh game for rematch
"Will we meet again in a boxing ring? Who knows. We only fought a couple of days ago. But, if the chance comes I will jump at it."
Warrington’s incredible fans rallied round their man in the aftermath of his shock defeat, and Josh paid tribute to the love he felt.
"I thank everyone again from the bottom of my heart and I can’t wait until we’re lifting the roof off Leeds Arena once more, singing ‘Marching On Together.’"
Josh travelled back to Leeds within hours of his defeat on Saturday night. That allowed him to be with wife Natasha to celebrate the third birthday of their twin daughters Eliza and Olivia.
He added: "Being around my wife and my girls on their third birthday was special. They will always make me smile."