Leeds Warrior Josh Warrington gives up IBF crown

The 30-year-old, who has won all his 30 professional contests, is preparing to take on Mexican Mauricio Lara on February 13.

A proposed mega clash with Xu Can was delayed earlier this month, with a new working date of April 24.

Warrington’s promoters, Matchroom, will now look to finalise that fight or make a giant match up with WBC king Gary Russell, both for the coveted Ring Magazine belt.

Warrington said: “It’s disappointing we couldn’t have the IBF title on the line, but I can’t let those decisions stand in the way of me going down in British boxing history by facing the very best in the division.

"I’ve always dreamed about winning the Ring belt, for me it leaves no doubt who the king of the division is.

"Right now, my mind and focus is on Lara for February 13 and then I’m looking to pick up that beautiful red and blue belt.”

Matchroom Sport managing director Eddie Hearn insisted: “It’s so important for Josh to be in a mega fight after Lara on February 13.

"He has his heart set on the Ring belt and it’s up to us to make the Can or Russell fights for April or early May.

"I’ve been working hard with Robert Diaz, of Golden Boy, to close Xu Can and also had several conversations with Luis De Cubas regarding a Gary Russell bout.

"Both fights are fight of the year contenders.”