'Talked a lot of crap' - Leigh Wood reveals how Mauricio Lara has given him extra motivation

When Leigh Wood is asked about Mauricio Lara and whether he has shown him enough respect, the response is as ruthless as one of his body shots.

"He has talked a lot of crap and he will pay for it," says the WBA featherweight champion who defends his crown against the dangerous Mexican at Nottingham's Motorpoint Arena on Saturday.

He is referring to Lara's suggestion that he faked torn biceps which led to their fight last year being scrapped. While smack talk in boxing is to be expected, Wood has not forgotten what he feels was a cheap shot.

"He has been disrespectful," he continues. "It's quite strange really. He said online that I faked my injury which wouldn't normally bother me because you expect crap, but people will read that and believe it.

"That really p***** me off. That's given me that bit of needle in training. That extra motivation to do more reps, more seconds, that extra push. I am not going to lie, he's done me a favour.