Opponent Scout Report: July 21st-24th

We take our regular Thursday look at all this weekend’s opponents

Thursday July 21st
Foxwoods Resort and Casino, Connecticut
Noely Murphy [6(2)-0] – Light Welterweight
Murphy was due to face Isaac Johnson [2(0)-3(0)] however the Colorado journeyman is now down to face Mykquan Williams on the same card. A new opponent for Murphy will hopefully be confirmed soon.

Saturday July 23rd
Mohegan Sun Casino, Connecticut
Michael McLaughlin Owen [11(5)-1(0)-1] – Welterweight
McLaughlin takes on Shakha Moore [12(2)-21(5)-3] over eight rounds in a rematch of their New England title match which ended in a no-contest back in March
– Record: Moore has faced countless New England prospects during his twenty year career. Recently had a good win over Chris Gilbert [then 13-2] and has gone the distance with former World champ Viv Harris.
– Style: Rough and tough, their previous meeting ended after a clash of heads with McLaughlin blaming the unorthodox forty year old for recklessness.
– Video: McLaughlin and Moore’s first clash
– Verdict: A chance for revenge, of sorts, and to win a title for McLaughlin.
A good opponent.

Sunday July 24th
Chase Leisure Centre, Cannock
Sonny Upton [11(5)-2(1)] – Light Middleweight
The middle Upton faces Willie Warburton [20(3)-96(2)-8] over eight rounds.
– Record: Warburton has fought a who’s-who of welter and light middle prospects in his 124 fights across 7 years. Comes in on the back of a two fight winning streak which includes a victory over former British title challenger Jason Welborn.
– Style: One of the most technically skilled journeymen out there. Perfect judge of range, great footwork and a full range of shots. Little power but is elusive and has a great chin.
– Video: Warburton’s recent win against Jason Welborn
– Verdict: Upton has an English title fight in the Autumn and will be given a good run-out on Sunday. Will need to make sure he’s at 100% or risk being upset by Warburton who probably could have won titles if he had a fanbase and promotional backing.
A good opponent

Anto Upton – Light Welterweight
The youngest Upton faces Luke Paddock [14(1)-1(0)] over ten rounds for the vacant English title.
– Record: Won the Midlands title in 2014 by outpointing the 6-0 Josh McLaren. Lost title in his first defence to Andy Keates
– Style: A slick outside fighter. A quick counter-puncher, Paddock is skilled but has little power.
– Video: Paddock’s Midland’s title win over McLaren.
– Verdict: A title fight for Upton so soon after his loss to Joe Hughes is something to be commended.
A good opponent