Josh Warrington edges Kid Galahad to retain IBF title

The old adage that the challenger has to “take away the title” from the champion, was totally in play Saturday night when IBF featherweight champion Josh Warrington met domestic rival Kid Galahad at First Direct Arena in Leeds, Eng.

After 12 rounds of limited offense, solid defense, and holding, champion Warrington was judged the majority decision winner over Galahad.

Scores were 116-112 and 116-113 for Warrington, and 115-113 for Galahad.

Galahad, a southpaw did well in the opening round-strafing the aggressive Warrington with left hands. Warrington was in search of any kind of rhythm. Whenever he got close, Galahad would smoother and hold. It wasn’t pretty. Galahad continued to confuse Warrington in rounds two and three. His switching and left hands were effective.

Warrington finally gave his fans something to cheer about in round five. His jab found Galahad as did his right. The wrestling continued. Galahad was warned for holding in round six. The frustrated Warrington marched on, forcing Galahad to fight. He was letting his hands go but missing more than landing.

Warrington was told by his corner that he was losing the fight. He came on hard in round 10, but Galahad stabbed him some more. Warrington edged the last two rounds purely on activity. He forced the action while the quicker Galahad clipped him occasionally.

“I knew it were close but I thought I was doing the cleaner work,” said Warrington. “You can’t come in the champion’s backyard and win by pot-shotting singles.”

Hopefully, a rematch will not happen.