Yorkshire’s Warrington wishing for world title shot after Brunker bout

Leeds-born featherweight Josh Warrington is aiming to make a huge statement when he defends his WBC intercontinental and commonwealth titles against Australian Joel Brunker on home soil, potentially earning his city further sporting success.

The unbeaten Yorkshireman is targeting a world title shot after hopefully dispatching his latest counterpart, who is 7/2 with Coral to cause an upset at the First Direct Arena in front of Warrington’s rapturous home support.

Having won all 21 of his professional ring outings since bursting onto the scene in 2009, 24-year-old Warrington has been linked with an exciting encounter with Welshman Lee Selby, who is reportedly willing to put his IBF featherweight strap on the line at Elland Road next year.

Although, Warrington must overcome a fighter who Selby dispatched in the eighth round of their clash last October, with Brunker hoping to continue his recovery from that maiden career defeat in this Leeds rumble.

Warrington’s home town has witnessed plenty of success of late, with Championship club Leeds United previously earning their first win of the season, while Leeds Rhinos thumped Hull KR 50-0 in the Rugby League Challenge Cup final at Wembley.

“The city is on a high right now and I want to capitalise on that on Saturday,” stated Warrington.

“It’s a special feeling standing on that ramp getting ready to walk to the ring. Even in the weeks beforehand there’s a massive buzz around the city with everyone getting excited about the fight and getting ready for the atmosphere.

“That’s got its own reputation now with people coming from all over to sample it, and it’s just getting bigger and bigger now.”