IT'S a bumper night for British boxing in Manchester on Sky Sports Box Office tonight. Top of the card is possibly a farewell fight for Tony “Bomber” Bellew as he aims to go out at the very top, with all four of Oleksandr Usyk’s cruiserweight titles around his waist.
Since being outclassed by Adonis Stevenson 5 years ago for world gold, Bellew has won 10 on the spin, including two victories over David Haye to end the Hayemaker’s career in emphatic fashion.
Usyk will however provide an altogether sterner test than Haye, who was well past his sell by date. Usyk is a formidable opponent, the first man to ever hold all four cruiserweight World titles and is fresh off taking the World Boxing Super Series crown, beating notable opponents in Briedis and Gassiev along the way.
Usyk is not regarded as having one punch power, but is a classy technician, who makes cumulative power tell. I think there will be plenty of heart and effort from Bellew, but against a stronger, more technically adept opponent, I can only see this fight going one way.
Usyk should make his ringcraft and strength tell to wear Bellew down.
A late stoppage may be a possibility, but I think Bellew will dig in and hear the final bell for the last time in his career.
Recommended Bets
- Usyk on points – 11/10 – Betfair
- Usyk by unanimous decision – 9/4 – Betway
- Bellew to be knocked down and Usyk to win by unanimous decision – 9/2 – Skybet
I've also previewed two of tonight's fights from the undercard, Ricky Burns v Scott Cardle and Anthony Crolla v Daud Cino Yordan
Let me know how you think tonight's fight will go in the comments section below.
