Our Monday appointment returns with the list of the most relevant matches of the upcoming week. Many boxing fans are already looking ahead to the stellar event in Riyadh on February 22, but the coming weekend, while not as rich in top-tier clashes, will still offer some fights worthy of attention. Here are the three bouts we recommend following, accompanied by a brief description.
Friday, February 14
Denys Berinchyk vs Keyshawn Davis – WBO Lightweight World Title – Madison Square Garden Theater, New York (USA)
The seasoned veteran against the rising star: a recurring theme in boxing that will be revisited at Madison Square Garden with these two undefeated fighters. The 36-year-old Berinchyk solidified his status as a reliable champion by surprisingly but deservedly defeating the formidable Emanuel Navarrete, and this Friday, he will once again try to prove the bookmakers wrong. Davis earned the status of favorite by dismantling the aggressive Argentine puncher Gustavo Lemos in just two rounds and is determined to join the elite of the lightweight division. This bout will be analyzed in detail in our “Fight of the Week” section.
Saturday, February 15
Samuel Molina vs Sandy Messaoud – EBU European Welterweight Title – Palacio de Deportes José María Martín Carpena, Malaga (Spain)
Samuel Molina has never been afraid to fight on the road: his three losses occurred away from home but provided him with the experience necessary to defeat the unbeaten Frenchman Jordy Weiss in France last October and claim the European title. Now, the Spanish fighter is set for what appears to be a relatively easy defense before targeting more ambitious goals. Facing him will be the 38-year-old southpaw Messaoud, who, with seven career losses and just one knockout to his name in his entire professional career, does not seem to pose an insurmountable obstacle.
Jack Catterall vs Arnold Barboza Jr – WBO Interim Super Lightweight Title – Co-op Live Arena, Manchester (United Kingdom)
The stakes are extremely high, as the winner will most likely earn a shot at the world title, but the spectacle may not be as electrifying. Catterall and Barboza are both very conservative fighters who often prefer to let their opponents take the initiative and then counter. As a result, there is a risk that the match could turn into a highly tactical affair with few dramatic moments. However, whoever falls behind on the scorecards may be forced to take more risks in the second half of the fight, which could benefit the viewers.