Anthony Cacace produced a masterful boxing display to defeat Josh Warrington via unanimous decision over twelve rounds at Wembley Stadium, successfully defending his IBF super-featherweight title in front of a passionate crowd on 21 September 2024.

The Belfast fighter, who had demolished Joe Cordina inside eight rounds in Riyadh four months earlier, demonstrated improved ringcraft and tactical awareness to overcome the Leeds warrior. All three judges scored convincingly in favour of Cacace, with cards reading 118-110, 117-111, and 117-111.

Warrington emerged from his corner with characteristic intensity, attempting to impose his trademark high-volume attacking style from the opening bell. The former two-time IBF featherweight champion found early success in rounds one and two, pressing forward and digging purposeful body shots whilst slipping inside the longer reach of the champion.

However, Cacace gradually assumed control as the contest progressed, utilising his significant physical advantages at super-featherweight. The 35-year-old champion’s accurate jabbing kept Warrington at bay, whilst his devastating right uppercut became an increasingly potent weapon as the challenger’s head dropped low when attempting to work on the inside.

By the middle rounds, Cacace had established dominance at range, landing crisp combinations and demonstrating excellent footwork to maintain distance. Warrington absorbed heavy punishment in the fourth round, momentarily appearing troubled by the champion’s power, though his renowned durability saw him through the crisis.

The Irishman showcased impressive versatility, alternating between boxing at distance and engaging in selective exchanges when Warrington managed to close the gap. His ability to smother the challenger’s attacks through intelligent holding and positional work proved crucial in nullifying Warrington’s aggressive intentions.

Warrington, displaying the warrior spirit that has defined his career, refused to retreat despite absorbing significant punishment. His bodywork remained committed throughout, landing meaty shots to Cacace’s midsection, yet he struggled to follow up effectively with head shots. The former featherweight champion’s engine never faltered, but the physical disparity at super-featherweight proved insurmountable.

The contest unfolded largely as anticipated, with Cacace’s size, reach, and sharpness overwhelming Warrington’s relentless pressure. The champion’s improved technical execution represented a marked evolution from his previous performance against Cordina, where he had relied more heavily on seeking an early knockout.

Referee Howard Foster maintained good control throughout, though Warrington received warnings for punching behind the head—an infringement that had cost him a point deduction in his previous defeat to Leigh Wood. The Leeds fighter’s fractured jaw from earlier contests raised concerns when Cacace landed a particularly vicious right hand, but Warrington’s granite chin held firm.

As the final rounds approached, Warrington required a knockout but Cacace managed the situation expertly, boxing intelligently whilst conserving energy. The champion’s conditioning at 35 years old impressed throughout the twelve-round championship distance.

In an unusual stipulation, only Cacace’s title was at stake, as the IBF had deemed Warrington ineligible to challenge due to insufficient activity at super-featherweight. Had the champion lost, he would have been stripped regardless.

The comprehensive victory consolidated Anthony Cacace’s position amongst the super-featherweight elite, whilst Josh Warrington faces significant career crossroads following consecutive defeats.