Josh Warrington isn't known for his punching power, but the popular Leeds native scored a big hometown win over Italy's Davide Dieli today at First Direct Arena, stopping the veteran in four rounds to add the European featherweight title to his British and Commonwealth belts.
Warrington (19-0, 3 KO) more or less manhandled Dieli (15-4, 5 KO) in a win that was expected, but still was an emphatic performance given the way he handled his business. He was the more skilled man, plus younger, and he brought out a heavy workrate that simply overwhelmed his opponent. He dropped Dieli once before finishing him off with an impressive flurry.
There's a lot to like about Warrington. He fights hard, he's got talent, and he's very likable, and thus a draw in his hometown. It is worth wondering if European level will be where his career peaks, but who knows? We've seen some good world level fighters throughout history who didn't have huge power, and maybe he'll be next in line.
Some tougher opponents at European level should tell us more, but for now, Warrington can bask in the glow of another big night.