Prizefighter Series - The Welterweights
Published January 21, 2008 by Martin Bean
This Friday, the exciting Prizefighter Series is back with a bang. After the two hugely successful Heavyweight events, we now turn out attention to the Welterweight Division, with what I believe is the strongest line up yet. London’s legendary York Hall provides the perfect setting for this superb event where there is sure to be a packed and vociferous crowd.
Comebacking former World Title challenger Neil Sinclair was in the competition until last week when a back injury forced him to withdraw. Matchroom, headed by Barry Hearn, did a superb job in getting a quality replacement – in comes former English Title Holder, Nigel Wright of Spennymoor.
So, how will the action pan out and where should you place your money? Well, after the draw was conducted this week, by former WBC Welterweight Champion John H Stracey and British Writers Young Boxer of the Year, Paul Appleby, some cracking bouts were announced for the Quarter Finals.
Quarter Finals
Quarter Final 1 – Ted Bami (24-3, 12 KO’s) vs. George Hillyard (9-3-1, 5 KO’s)
As a former European Champion, Ted Bami rightly starts favourite for this competition as a whole. Bami is extremely strong, suited to the shorter distance and will cause any opponent trouble. Facing him is Canning Town’s popular George Hillyard. Hillyard is certain to be in shape, with this the first time he’s boxed at the 10st 7lbs Welterweight limit for over two years. Hillyard has talent, can punch and I expect him to cause Bami more problems than many might expect.
But ultimately, Bami will be a little too strong for the younger Hillyard – it’s unfortunate for George he was drawn against Bami so early as he could have made a real impression. This will be an exciting contest and start the night with a bang.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Ted Bami to WIN @ 1/4
Quarter Final 2 – Steve Conway (34-10, 7 KO’s) vs. Mark Lloyd (11-1, 3 KO’s)
An intriguing clash involving the experience of Conway, a former IBO Champion, against Telford’s Mark Lloyd, the fresher of the two having had just 12 bouts. Lloyd’s only defeat came against the talented Adnan Anwar so there is no disgrace there. Conway has boxed just four times in the past two years (all defeats) and whilst operating at a higher level than Lloyd, I’m not sure how much he still ‘wants’ this.
In another tough bout, I anticipate the fresher and hungrier Lloyd to edge out an extremely close (and possibly controversial) decision.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Mark Lloyd to WIN @ 5/4
Quarter Final 3 – Michael Lomax (11-1, 2 KO’s) vs. Craig Dickson (15-4-1, 8 KO’s)
These two met earlier this year, both their last contests, when Lomax ran out a clear points (59-55) winner. Lomax has talent and his excellent amateur pedigree (Former ABA Champion and England International) means he will be used to both the shorter number of rounds and multiple contest in a single night.
Dickson is sure to be ‘up’ for this one and will give more than he did in this match back in January, but ultimately, Lomax’s class will prevail.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Michael Lomax to WIN @ 1/3
Quarter Final 4 – Ross Minter (17-3-1, 8 KO’s) vs. Nigel Wright (18-4-1, 9 KO’s)
This is the tightest contest on paper and provides a good clash of styles; Wright’s sharp, upright boxing against the aggressive hooking of Ross ‘The Boss’. The bookies are unable to separate the two, with both fighters being priced at 5/6.
I expect Minter to start fast with his hometown crowd roaring him on, causing Wright all sorts of problems early on. But from round two I expect Wright to settle into his smooth boxing (Wright is another with excellent amateur pedigree) leaving it set perfectly – all or nothing on round three. In a thrilling climax to the contest, expect Wright’s boxing to prevail but it won’t be for a lack of trying on Minter’s part.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Nigel Wright to WIN @ 5/6
BOXING CAPITAL TIP - BET ON AN ACCUMULATOR/FOUR FOLD OF ALL THE ABOVE BETS TO WIN AND AT THE CURRENT ODDS, VALUE OF 6/1!
SEMI FINALS
Semi Final 1 – Ted Bami (24-3, 12 KO’s) vs. Mark Lloyd (11-1, 3 KO’s)
Bami looks sure to be too strong and experienced for Lloyd, who will have given an awful lot to overcome Conway in his first contest.
Bami should win on points but he may even force a stoppage if he can up the pace. However, with a tough final ahead, Bami should settle for a three round points victory.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Ted Bami to WIN (Odds to be finalised on the night)
Semi Final 2 – Michael Lomax (11-1, 2 KO’s) vs. Nigel Wright (18-4-1, 9 KO’s)
The Prizefighter gained momentum based on the all action style of the first event, but this contest will be a little different. Both are good upright boxers, with emphasis on boxer rather than fighter. Still, with only three rounds scheduled, neither fighter can afford to be too cautious.
Had Wright had the full six weeks notice, I feel my prediction may be different. But with just over a week’s notice and a tough first bout against Ross Minter behind him, I expect Lomax to have the in fitness and sharpness. Add to that Lomax’s awkward rangy style and I feel he’ll win on points.
BOXING CAPITAL TIP – Michael Lomax to WIN (Odds to be finalised on the night)
GRAND FINAL
Final – Ted Bami (24-3, 12 KO’s) vs. Michael Lomax (11-1, 2 KO’s)
What a cracking final this would be, if all goes according to our predictions. Bami the smaller, stronger and more aggressive boxer against the contrasting Lomax, who is tall, rangy, awkward and a Southpaw. Bami will have had the extra rest, which could bear some significance, particularly if Lomax's semi final turns out to be as tough as expected.
Expect Lomax to keep Bami at bay initially, as he takes some time to work out Lomax's style. But, as the bout wears on, Bami will take over with his physical strength grinding down a gutsy Michael Lomax, who with an easier draw and/or the longer rest, we may well have tipped to take the title. It really will be that close.
A fresher Bami takes the Prizefighter Title and GBP 25,000 via a hard fought three round points decision!
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