With two boxing world titles already on his resume, Josh Warrington decided to chance his arm at axe throwing, going head-to-head with Travis Waters in an epic competition.
The British boxing legend will promote his first show on Saturday evening at the John Charles Centre for Sport in Leeds, UK.
Josh Warrington put it all on the line in an axe-throwing competition
Throughout his career, Josh Warrington has proved that he’s lethal with his hands. However, believe it or not, he’s not quite so deadly with an axe.
To bring attention to his major event on July 13, the gifted boxer hosted a media day at the Boom Battle Bar, where he clashed with undefeated welterweight — Travis Waters.
Prior to the contest, ‘The Leeds Warrior’ had struggled in the axe throwing department, failing to reach the same level of technique that’s guided him to two world titles.
Regardless, he entered the competition with optimism, asserting: “I’ve had a bit of a shocker so far, but the last few throws have been alright, so hopefully momentum is with me.”
However, he was quickly put on the back foot, with Waters exhibiting ferocious power, launching the axe at a lightning pace to score seven points. Alas, despite his best efforts, Warrington missed on all three occasions, consequently losing the battle to his protégé.
Taking the defeat well, the 33-year-old said: “He brought it. There were explosive shots, and I think he’ll bring that this weekend as well. Same again on Saturday, mate.” Waters laughed: “Fingers crossed.”
Josh Warrington reveals what type of promoter he wants to be
Away from the axe throwing, Warrington took full delight in giving the next generation of fighters a platform to tell their stories. While fans today watch the formidable athlete boxing at the highest level, it was a long road to the glitz and glamor that the peak of the sport has to offer.
On his journey to the peak of the mountain, he fought on the small hall shows, promoted by Steve Wood, building his way towards becoming a fighter, adored in the local community.
Now, he wants to give the boxers coming through an opportunity to do the same thing, while always remaining by their side, as not just a promoter, but a fellow fighter who can give them all the advice they need.
He explained: “There’s a couple of my stablemates on. Jodie Wilkinson is making her professional debut, and Jack Goodwin is on there too. So, the bill is stacked with talent, and I think they’re all trying to emulate what I’ve done by getting onto those title levels.
“But it all starts here with the small halls. That’s how you pick up the experience and knowledge for the big fights down the line.”
“A lot of fighters are quick to jump ship if things don’t go their way, or a better opportunity comes up on the table. One thing about Steve Wood is that he’s always been transparent. Sometimes, in this game, it can go amiss.
“I’d like to follow in Steve’s footsteps and be honest with the fighters. I’ve learned a lot, seen a fair few contracts, and worked with a lot of promoters, like Eddie Hearn, Frank Warren, and guys overseas.
“I also know how to promote a fight and sell a ticket or two. So, I can pass on that knowledge to the next generation.”