Saturday night undefeated IBF middleweight champion Jermall Charlo makes his forth title defense against undefeated challenger Julian “J-Rock” Williams at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. The anticipated match-up features two evenly matched opponents, both physically in their respective prime that could end as a fight-of-the-year contender.
The Breakdown:
At 26 years old Jermall Charlo began his world championship reign in September 2015 when he defeated Cornelius Bundrage by TKO to capture the IBF title. Capitalizing on his momentum with consecutive victories against Willie Campfort (TKO) and Austin Trout (UD), Charlo looks to win in impressive fashion against a prime, hungry opponent.
Entering the ring at 26 years old, like his foe, Julian Williams is more than ready for his first title shot. Bred and primed in the fighting city of Philadelphia Williams, more often that not, ends the night in short fashion by defeating his opponents by TKO. Relentless in his pursuit of his first title shot, J-Rock awaits his moment to have his hand raised as the words “the new” rain down on his ears.
In the fight, Charlo is a big, strong, power hitter that prefers to work behind the jab. In previous bouts Charlo’s chin has been tested and he’s come through the fire relatively unscathed.
In the fight, Williams makes use of punch power and demonstrated ability to go the distance in a grueling bout.
When the Final Bell Sounds
Jermall Charlo vs. Julian Williams is a true 50/50. Both fighters are in their physical prime and both posses the ability to ability to bully the other around the ring. The road to victory is generally more arduous for the challenger as he has the bigger shoes to fill.
BSO Prediction: After a grueling 12 rounds, Williams by MD.
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PHOTO CREDIT: STEPHANIE TRAPP/Showtime