Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall had to be dragged apart by Eddie Hearn and security as the first head-to-head meeting to promote their rematch boiled over. 

The duo's rivalry has been simmering ever since Taylor was awarded a controversial split decision in Glasgow two years ago to retain the IBF, WBA Super, WBC and WBO world super-lightweight titles.

Chorley southpaw Catterall, 30, has chased the Scot for a return ever since and his wish has finally been granted, with the stage set for a second bout in Leeds on April 27. 

And the bad blood bubbled to the surface once again when they met in Edinburgh for the first leg of a two-day promotional tour.

Speaking after the clash, which saw him grab Taylor by the throat, Catterall said: "It's been a long time coming.

"We've finally caught him. I don't believe he wanted to fight me but he's showed up and I'm going to smash his head in on April 27.

"Two years on I've stayed in the gym, I've picked up two victories since then. He went to New York and got smashed [by Teofimo Lopez] and I believe he's on the decline. 

"I am going to capitalise on it and put him to bed. I am coming in there to do damage. 

"I don't care that much about Josh, the respect is not there. He is the enemy and that's all I can focus on."

Taylor, who was outpointed by Lopez at Madison Square Garden in June 2023, shares the view that there is no love lost.

The Tartan Tornado, 33, said: "He says he's coming to knock me out — he's never knocked anyone out in his life. 

"I don't hate anyone but I don't like this guy and I can't wait to smash his brains in." 

Matchroom Sport chairman Hearn added: "This has got a real old school feel about it — the good old days of real British grudge matches.

"Times have changed, their careers have changed, but the rivalry continues."

Taylor and Catterall will face each other again tomorrow at a press conference in Manchester.