While they might not be household names yet, there’s real excitement surrounding the bout between Otabek Kholmatov and Raymond Ford, who clash for the vacant WBA featherweight title at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York, on March 2.
Kholmatov (12-0, 11 KOs) is a rampaging southpaw pressure fighter from Uzbekistan. The 25-year-old was a standout amateur and has transitioned extremely well to the professional ranks, with only one of his opponents hearing the final bell.
Ford (14-0-1, 7 KOs) is also a left-hander but falls into the category of slick technician. While he can certainly punch, the 24-year-old works behind a terrific right jab and uses his feet to locate time and distance. Like his opponent, Ford was a distinguished amateur and he’s very sharp.
The Sporting News provides odds and a prediction on this eagerly anticipated clash.
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Otabek Kholmatov vs. Raymond Ford betting odds
Per BetMGM, Kholmatov is the -150 favourite while Ford is the +125 underdog. The draw is +1800.
Otabek Kholmatov vs. Raymond Ford trends
There are currently no betting trends for this fight. The Sporting News will update this section as and when the information becomes available:
Kholmatov via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/DQ: N/AKholmatov via decision: N/AFord via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/ DQ: N/AFord via decision: N/A
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Otabek Kholmatov vs. Raymond Ford prediction, best bets
This is not an easy fight to call and the odds reflect that.
However, my feeling is that the timing of this opportunity suits Kholmatov. He looks like a complete fighter already and will be very hard to discourage. No opponent has come close to taking him down and he’s extremely heavy-handed.
The only blemish on Ford’s record is an eight-round split draw against the unheralded Aaron Perez. The bad news for the American is that Perez was successful in cutting off the ring and forcing him into punching exchanges. During those moments, Ford looked uncomfortable.
While it’s possible that Ford underestimated Perez and fought to the level of the opposition that night, the warning signs are out heading into a bout with Kholmatov. The Uzbek fighter will be firing on all cylinders and while one can foresee a scenario where Ford builds a lead, will he be able to keep it?
My hunch is that Kholmatov will be landing big shots by the midway point and the damage will begin to mount. In his first world title bout, don’t expect Ford to wilt quickly, but the punishment is sure to catch up with him before the final bell.
I like Kholmatov to win via late stoppage.
Sporting News prediction: Kholmatov TKO 9 (Per BetMGM -150)
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