For months they’ve been trading barbs on social media. Now, American Richardson Hitchins and Australian George Kambosos Jr will finally face each other in the ring and let their fists do the talking. The bout is scheduled for Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York, presented by Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn. The IBF super lightweight world title, currently held by Hitchins, will be on the line.
Richardson Hitchins, flawed genius
Sometimes you watch two fights in a row and come away with opposite impressions: that’s what happened with Hitchins recently. He was disappointing against the Argentine Gustavo Lemos, but brilliant in his victory over the Australian Liam Paro.
In his title eliminator, the American fighter struggled to handle Lemos’s non-stop, power-packed pressure — to the point where many doubted the judges’ verdict. In contrast, his world championship fight with Paro was a display of tactical sharpness and execution speed.
George Kambosos Jr and the “wrong style”
Some boxers struggle against certain styles, and Kambosos clearly belongs to that group. He gives his best when fighting head-on and can use his fast hands. But he struggles against elusive fighters who refuse to stay in front of him.
In his 2020 win over Lee Selby, Kambosos looked sluggish and struggled to close the distance despite Selby’s lack of power. He won a narrow decision in a dull fight. The same issues emerged — and were amplified — in his two defeats to Devin Haney, and were also visible in his controversial victory against the southpaw Maxi Hughes.
What will happen? Boxe-Punch’s prediction!
The way Kambosos is being managed reminds me of Regis Prograis: a talented fighter thrown into difficult situations and punished for it. Kambosos is in a similar spot. Instead of being matched with aggressive opponents that would highlight his strengths, his team keeps offering him complicated tactical challenges. This boosts his paychecks, but also fills his record with red marks.
Hitchins will be yet another patient outboxer for Kambosos to chase around the ring, trying to force chaotic exchanges — an uphill battle. Don’t be mistaken: Hitchins is not just about defense — he can also hold his ground using head and arm movement. But his preferred approach is counterpunching, which means Kambosos will be forced once again to take the initiative.
And once again, the challenger may struggle to put together sustained, effective attacks. He’s not a raging brawler like Gustavo Lemos, who overwhelmed Hitchins with windmill punches and blind aggression.
I expect the champion to dictate the pace, neutralize Kambosos’ charges, and land the cleaner punches in most rounds. My prediction: a clear decision win on points for Richardson Hitchins.