Liam Davies vs Nathaniel Collins

Liam Davies meets Nathaniel Collins, with Davies holding the European title and both trying to force their way towards a world title opportunity. Davies has rebuilt well since losing to Shabaz Masoud, while Collins must respond after a draw and a split-decision defeat against Cristobal Lorente.

Davies is the taller orthodox boxer, long through the arms and much happier now he is no longer boiling himself down to super-bantamweight. He can stab the jab and punch hard enough to earn respect while maintaining a disciplined shape. Collins is a compact southpaw with a serious engine. At his best, he applies educated pressure, works in bursts and carries enough spite to hurt good fighters, as Lee McGregor discovered when he was dropped three times.

Davies must control Collins with the jab and straight right, then step away before the Scotsman can work underneath. Collins cannot follow him around like a hungry dog. He must cut the ring, attack the chest and body, and make Davies fight at an uncomfortable pace. The danger for Collins is becoming desperate and walking onto clean counters.

Collins will try to make it an inside fight, but Davies is the fresher man mentally and looks stronger at featherweight. His reach, cleaner punching and home advantage should carry him through the difficult patches.

Liam Davies to win by unanimous decision after 12 rounds.