With such a compelling clash between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol topping the bill this Saturday, it is easy to dismiss the show’s six undercard matchups.
However, one fight in particular that deserves to be getting more attention is Skye Nicolson vs Raven Chapman, Saudi Arabia’s first female world title fight.
The pair will be colliding for Nicolson’s WBC featherweight strap in a potential watershed moment for women’s boxing, and perhaps women’s sport more broadly, in the Middle East.
Furthermore, the fight represents another Matchroom vs Queensberry showdown, with promoter Frank Warren hoping to extend his remarkable record against Eddie Hearn.
And so, without further ado, Bloody Knockout brings you two informed predictions for the intriguing Beterbiev vs Bivol undercard contest.
Skye Nicolson on points – Oscar Pick
Nicolson is, of course, a notable favorite to win this bout. The Australian’s silky skills from her decorated amateur career have, after all, translated to the professional ranks unsurprisingly well, with her elite footwork and ring generalship allowing the 29-year-old to rule over her division after just 11 contests.
With that being said, Chapman enters this clash as an unbeaten, world-level operator too, with the 30-year-old barely losing a round across her nine professional outings. But still, there is something about Nicolson’s style that just makes her a cut above the rest.
Whether it be through her crafty defensive maneuvers or mesmerizing combinations, she will always find a way to shine on the big stage. In truth, the only potential weakness to be exploited, as far as I can tell, is her lack of power, with her one stoppage arriving against Lucy Wildheart towards the end of last year, when her opponent’s corner ultimately threw in the towel.
However, in this matchup, Nicolson won’t have to worry too much about landing any thudding blows. Instead, she should focus on utilizing her lateral movement, boxing her way toward a very achievable unanimous decision victory.
Raven Chapman on points – Callum Boyle
This is a historic fight and one that will elevate women’s boxing to the next level, with both competitors currently unbeaten in their professional careers.
A knockout is extremely unlikely in this bout as both Nicolson and Chapman are both more versed in showcasing their technical talents.
Nicolson’s southpaw stance and previous Olympic experience mean she may be more technically advanced, but Chapman has had a history of punching above her weight, beating many opponents she was considered to be the underdog against in her nine previous bouts.
More often than not in boxing, there is very little to separate the two in the ring and this is the case here.
Both will have to deal with the high-pressure scenario of being on one of the cards of the year and whoever handles the occasion better will be the one that prevails.
Saying that, I do fancy an upset and although I think it will be a split decision, I can see Chapman pulling off a surprise win in Riyadh.