THERE WAS DISAPPOINTMENT for Dubliner Patrick Hyland at the First Direct Arena in Leeds last night, as he was beaten by Britain’s Josh Warrington.
An impressive display by Warrington saw him stop Hyland in the ninth round, having previously floored the Irishman in the second.
The ‘Leeds Warrior,’ who is an ex-British, European and Commonwealth champion, could now get a chance to fight for the world title, which is set to be vacant, with current champion Gary Russell Jr expected to move up in weight, while IBF champion Lee Selby could also be in contention for the belt.
Hyland, who wouldn’t have been eligible to win Warrington’s WBC International featherweight belt anyway after he failed to make the 126lbs weight limit on Friday, expressed his disappointment at the outcome on Twitter.
Meanwhile, after the bout, Warrington paid tribute to the Irishman’s gutsy display.
“It was a really accomplished performance,” the 25-year-old told Sky Sports.
“Hyland is a tough man who hits hard and I had to keep my hands up and be aware of what he was throwing. I listened to my corner in-between rounds and in the end, we got the result.
“It’s always added pressure to keep winning in front of my fans and it’s very pleasing when I have a performance like that.
“If Lee Selby wants it, he can have it, but he isn’t the only route and we have many options available.”
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