Right then, here we go! We’ve touched gloves.
Lara is introduced to large boos once again.
A clip of Brian Clough to get the home crowd even more amped on Wood’s VT.
…and here comes ‘Lethal’ Leigh Wood in his hometown!
Here comes Lara, preparing for his ring walk, as the crowd sings Sweet Caroline.
Prediction
A reminder that we are predicted Lara to be victorious tonight.
Wood deserves huge credit for choosing Lara as a voluntary defence, a bout most in his position would have certainly avoided.
The Nottingham fight is no stranger to being the underdog or having to come through incredibly tough tests in a fight, as Michael Conlan found out 11 months ago.
Whether he can afford to be in that much trouble against Lara is another matter, with the Mexican possessing the concussive power to stop any opponent.
This is not likely to be a fight won through a defensive masterclass or through boxing at distance, with both having no issue with standing in the centre of the ring and trading.
Wood will keep coming and coming, with the fact his last two wins have come by stoppage in the 12th round proving he has the heart and the engine to go the distance.
His bravery will get him through some tough moments, but there may prove to be too many against a fighter as good as Lara.
Lara to win by stoppage, round seven.
Next up?
It’s the main event coming up.
Smith vs Allington result
As expected, Dalton Smith retains his British super-lightweight title via unanimous decision.
Smith vs Allington
Smith had this won an age ago, of course, but Allington begins the 12th looking for a morale victory which the bell would bring.
Smith is frustrated, that much is clear, as he steps forward and rains down on his opponent but it is all a bit predictable and Allington can continue to do enough to stand firm and defend. Smith “needs to chuck in a feint or two” says Froch.
He doesn’t – there’s the bell!
Smith vs Allington
Into the 11th and Allington is still shaking off left hands and right, without ever really laying a finger on Smith.
Smith must wonder how his opponent is still standing, and I’m with him. Gotta hand it to Allington!
We will have a 12th.
