Warrington ready to strengthen world bid

Warrington, 23, takes on Italy’s Davide Dieli for the vacant crown – just four months after becoming British champion when defeating Martin Lindsay at the same venue.

That success came just one month after the defence of his Commonwealth belt against Rendall Munroe in Manchester.

Warrington is intent on becoming European champion before setting his sights on world domination.

Warrington, who still works as a dental technician for Beever Dental, admitted: “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind 12 months for me.

“This time last year we were getting ready to defend the English title for the second time at Elland Road pavilion and now we’re selling around six or seven thousand tickets at Leeds Arena.

“In those 12 months, I have captured the Commonwealth and British titles and it’s been a roller-coaster ride but I’m loving every minute of it and you have just got to take opportunities when they come along.

“I’ve been a professional for five years now and it was the right time to step up. When I first turned pro, I set my aims on the British title and obviously I have achieved that in the last fight.

“That goal is done and I’ve had to set myself a new one which is to go right to the top and be world champion. You have got to take fights like the European title to show that you can leave domestic level behind and take the next step up.

“I’m very excited to box here again and it’s putting Leeds back on the boxing map,” said Warrington. “I’m a proud Leeds lad and it was only the other week that I went over to Manchester and everyone said how excited they were to be coming to Leeds to see the show. It’s building its own little reputation and it’s good for up and coming pro boxers. I love fighting at home and I love nothing more than fighting in a packed arena.”