After an intense showdown at Wembley Stadium, Anthony Cacace firmly established his position within the super featherweight category by successfully defending his IBO title against the seasoned Josh Warrington. However, at 35, Cacace is contemplating a significant move up in weight, casting his eyes toward the lightweight division where champions like Vasily Lomachenko and Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis reign. Let’s explore the implications of such a transition and assess Cacace’s current standing in the boxing world.
Cacace’s situation is underpinned by a clear and pragmatic consideration: the financial rewards awaiting him in the lightweight class far outweigh what he might earn by remaining at super featherweight. As he approaches the twilight of his career, fighting luminaries like Lomachenko and Davis may not only ensure a more lucrative purse but also present the thrill of competing at the highest level. While ‘Sugar’ Nunez, a dangerous opponent within the super featherweight realm, offers a potential conflict, the payday for Cacace would likely be modest compared to what he could garner in the lightweight division.
In his recent bout against Warrington, Cacace displayed resilience but fell short of his full potential. Winning by unanimous decision, the fight showcased significant tactical battles, with Warrington effectively neutralizing Cacace’s strengths. Cacace, despite being the taller fighter with a more extended reach, struggled to maintain distance, allowing Warrington to close in and disrupt his offensive rhythm. The scoring, 117-111, 118-110, and 117-111, reflected Cacace’s victory but also hinted at missed opportunities. For a man aiming to ascend to elite status, merely winning without a dominant display may not suffice. Warrington’s trademark defensive skills and experience made it challenging for Cacace to turn the tide in his favor much earlier in the match.
Entering the lightweight division presents Cacace with a double-edged sword: the excitement of high-stakes fights against top-tier opponents contrasted against the inherent risks that come with each bout. While he feels confident enough to challenge Lomachenko and Davis, both are known for their prowess, and Cacace will need to step up significantly if he wishes to compete effectively. He openly expressed his ambitions to BBC, stating, “I’m in that league,” highlighting his belief in his capabilities. However, the managements of fighters like Davis often prefer carefully calculated matchups, which might complicate Cacace’s aspirations for a title shot.
Should Cacace choose to ascend, he must adapt his fight strategy to align with the skill set of his potential opponents. In the lightweight ranks, power and technical ability are abundant. Fighters such as Lomachenko possess exceptional footwork and combination punching, while Davis is known for his explosive knockout capability. Cacace will need to refine his approach, focusing on utilizing his physical advantages more effectively. During his match with Warrington, winning strategies were highlighted, yet Cacace often found himself grappling with Warrington’s tactics rather than implementing his own.
Looking back at his recent performance, Cacace is determined to enhance his boxing IQ and adjust his techniques for future clashes. He acknowledged that his recent win against Warrington fell short of the expectations he set for himself. The lessons learned from that fight could serve as invaluable tools for his preparation against the more formidable competition that awaits in the lightweight territory. “I know I had it in me to beat Josh,” Cacace admitted, recognizing that while he succeeded on paper, true mastery in the ring eluded him on the night.
Cacace stands at a critical juncture in his career. The choice to stay within the safer confines of the super featherweight division or to leap into the competitive fray of lightweight boxing is not merely a technical decision but also one steeped in ambition and financial pragmatism. As he trains and prepares for what lies ahead, the boxing community watches eagerly to see whether Cacace will rise to the occasion and fulfill his potential as he aims for championship glory at the pinnacle of his career. Only time will reveal if he can navigate the challenges that the lightweight division poses.