Photos: Josh Warrington Stops Kiko Martinez To Reclaim IBF Title

Leeds - In a featherweight rematch, Josh Warrington (31-1-1, 8 KOs) reclaimed the IBF world title with a seventh round stoppage of veteran Kiko Martinez (43-11-2, 30 KOs). (photos by Mark Robinson)

Five years ago, Warrington won a tough twelve round majority decision over Martinez.

Warrington started fast in the first, as he was letting his hands go with combinations. As they were exchanging, Warrington landed a solid hook to drop Martinez. A cut also opened up above Martinez's left eye.

Warrington was unloading with punches in the second round. He was taking the fight to Martinez, who was not moving his head enough or firing back with enough punches in return. They were trading away at close range in the closing moments.

During the third, Martinez was coming forward with Warrington taking his time and working on the back-foot. The action slowed down with Martinez working his way into the fight. Martinez continued to press in the fourth and was digging to the body. Warrington was pressing Martinez against the ropes and looking to keep the action close. 

Entering the fifth, Martinez had cuts above both eyes. There was a decent amount of blood streaming down Martinez's face. Warrington was landing quick bursts on Martinez when he pressed in close. In the sixth, Warrington was outworking Martinez for the most part with the quick punches. There was also a head clash that opened up a cut on Martinez's forehead.

In the seventh, Warrington was circling and landing quick punches to keep Martinez at bay. Warrington jumped on him with punches against the ropes, Martinez was not throwing back and the referee jumped in to wave off the fight.