Fight results

Given that both men have previously shared opponents, and their styles complement each other so well, this matchup was inevitable. A pressure fighter versus a counterpuncher — a classic boxing scenario.

In this bout, Cacace will undoubtedly be the one pressing forward, forcing his opponent to work. That’s his trademark, even when facing seemingly aggressive fighters like Josh Warrington. Wood, in contrast, will fight on the retreat, working off the back foot and looking to land punishing counters while finding space to escape the pressure.

Both fighters are 36 — a seasoned age for the lighter weight divisions. Still, neither man has shown significant physical decline.

It’s difficult to give a clear edge in experience. Perhaps Wood holds a slight advantage based on recent opposition: Josh Warrington, Mauricio Lara (twice), Michael Conlan, and prior to that, the Chinese fighter Can Xu.

Statistically, Cacace has consistently outworked his opponents. Take the Warrington vs. Wood fight as a comparison — although Wood won, Josh was throwing more punches each round, including the latter half when Wood typically ramps up his volume.

In contrast, Cacace managed to outwork Warrington in their encounter. Anthony threw more punches in every round except the twelfth. In the final stanza, both landed exactly 36 punches.

This is an edge for Cacace. He has been smart with his schedule and stayed active, having fought twice in 2024. Wood last entered the ring in 2023 — a risky gap at this stage in a fighter’s career when it becomes harder to maintain sharpness and freshness.

Wood holds nearly a 30% edge in knockout ratio. He’s ended 60.71% of his fights via stoppage, compared to Cacace’s 34.78%. That said, Anthony’s power shouldn't be underestimated. He hides heavy shots within combinations and often finds openings to land cleanly.

Still, Wood’s power deserves special mention. His well-timed counter shots have turned the tide of entire fights — and even rescued him from defeat.

Cacace has only one loss on his record — and it wasn’t by stoppage. Wood, on the other hand, has been knocked out twice and has hit the canvas multiple times. Holding up under Cacace’s relentless pressure won’t be easy for Leigh. Even Warrington’s constant volume gave him major problems.

The fight will take place in Leigh Wood’s hometown. His opponent — an Irishman — will face intense crowd pressure. Almost the entire arena will be behind Wood, and enduring that mentally is no small challenge.

On one hand, the return from a layoff might bring Wood a psychological boost — especially with home support. On the other, that same crowd can sometimes put extra pressure on a hometown fighter. Across from him will be a high-volume opponent who keeps pushing the pace and intensifying the action as the rounds progress.

Cacace also has his own set of concerns. Wood is a slick counterpuncher capable of landing something heavy at any moment. And Wood too increases his offensive output as the fight goes on — especially after the sixth round. All this will play out with a partisan crowd behind the hometown favorite.

However, Anthony has the advantage of ongoing activity and momentum. He holds a title, has confidence, and — most importantly — brings a style that typically troubles Wood. He not only throws more punches than someone like Warrington, but also lands more effectively. All signs point to a very tough night ahead for Leigh.