This weekend, super featherweight sensation
Vasil Lomachenko makes the first defence of his WBO title against big punching Nicholas
Walters in a mouth-watering clash.
Lomachenko is arguably
one of the greatest amateur boxers to have ever laced up the gloves. Having won two Olympic gold medals, he
finished with an unpresented record of 396 wins against 1 loss; avenging his
only blemish twice.
His stock in the professional ranks is equally
as mesmeric. Having fought for the world title in his second bout and narrowly
losing a split decision, the Ukrainian beat the talented Gary Russel Jr in his
comeback before acquiring a world championship at featherweight and at super
featherweight in fights four and seven respectively.
Perhaps Lomachenko’s greatest test will
come in the shape of the unbeaten Walters. The former super featherweight WBA champion is naturally
bigger and has a reach advantage over his opponent.
If Walters is able to cut
the ring off properly and unload when the pair stand in the pocket then he
could cause problems. If he
doesn’t and allows Lomachenko room to hit and move then it could be a very long
night for the Jamaican.
On the same night in Cardiff, Terry
Flanagan makes the fourth defence of his WBO lightweight belt against Orlando
Cruz.
The Mancunian is looking to land himself a
career defining fight against one of the other champions in the weight after
notching up impressive wins against Diego Magdaleno and Derry Matthews. A derby showdown with Anthony Crolla
also appeals, but ‘’Turbo’’ must not overlook Cruz if his lofty ambitions are
to be achieved.
The Puerto Rican challenger possess sound
amateur pedigree having represented his country at the 2000 Olympic Games and
has fought for the world title. Weight may be his undoing as the fight goes on
though given much of his career has been at fought at the featherweight and
super-featherweight limit.
Article courtesy of Neel Khagram @BehindTheFight
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