Josh Warrington vs Kiko Martinez 2: Leeds Warrior admits he overlooked Mauricio Lara

Josh Warrington has insisted he will not make the same mistakes against Kiko Martinez he made during his shock defeat to Mauricio Lara.

The Leeds star, 31, admitted he underestimated the dangerous Mexican, 24, before he was beaten in February of last year.

Warrington will challenge for the IBF featherweight title in a rematch against the in-form Martinez at the First Direct Arena in London on March 26.

He won their first fight via majority decision at the same venue almost five years ago.

But as he aims to win back his old belt for the second time, he has let slip he may have overlooked Lara the first time around with his mind already on other things.

Warrington told The Yorkshire Post: “I always thought I would never take anyone for granted but I certainly did the first night I boxed Mauricio Lara.

“I don’t think I will ever make that mistake again, from now until the time I call it a day on my career.

“If you are not going into the ring switched on, you are going to get hurt. That is one thing I have learnt in the last 12 months. As I have got older, I have learnt to listen to my body and the importance of recovery.

“I have always wanted to train until the wheels fall off but I have learnt the importance of resting and trying to switch off.”

Warrington also revealed how he has been inspired by Leigh Wood after watching his rival come from behind to beat Michael Conlan last month.

He added: “Only a few years ago, Leigh Wood looked like he was done but he got that shot against Can Xu and has now been involved in one of the contenders for the fight of the year.

“It is still wide open and it is all to play for. Anything can happen.

“It is exciting to be part of this little era. I felt like I had a bit of bad luck not