Predictions for Saturday’s main events

Luke Campbell vs Tommy Coyle

My prediction- Campbell TKO win

If these “acquaintances” did not grow up together and be from the same city this event would be just another straightforward stepping stone for Luke Campbell that would feature on an undercard.

But with the fascinating sub-plots surrounding it, Eddie Hearn has smartly built it as a headliner. Up for grabs is the vacant WBC International lightweight title.

Complacency is the only threat to Campbell from collecting the belt and setting up domestic bouts with the likes of Terry Flanagan or Anthony Crolla.

The 2012 Olympic gold medallist is too sharp, quick and accurate for Tommy Coyle.

However leading up to Saturday, Coyle has conducted himself professionally and deserves credit for being an honest, down to earth lad in a tough sport.

But unfortunately for Coyle he will be outclassed by Campbell, who can then move on to more perilous and rewarding challenges.

Danny Garcia vs Paulie Malignaggi

My prediction: Danny Garcia win by KO

 

Like so many competitors in boxing Paulie Malignaggi is talking a great fight. Because he is a talented analyst he can place doubt in people’s minds.

Ahead of the contest in New York he said: “You gotta be a real moran if you think this fight is one sided. If you watch any kind of boxing and don’t think this is competitive you gotta get your brain checked.”

Maybe Malignaggi will prove me wrong and force me to get a brain scan but realistically there are two options of how the fight will play and Garcia remains undefeated in each scenario.

Garcia could turn up and be the guy who beat Lucas Matthysse in 2013. His rapid combinations and slick left hook would make him look good against the “Magic Man”.

Or the unimpressive display Garcia showcased against Lamont Peterson will be what disappointed viewers will get. But even that would be sufficient to outscore Malignaggi on points.

At 34 and judging my his previous performance, being destroyed by Shawn Porter, Malignaggi needs a KO to be victorious as he doesn’t have enough to win on points. But in 33 successful bouts he has only had seven knock outs.

For that reason and the fact that Garcia has a lot to prove, I’m backing Danny “Swift” Garcia to win comfortably by KO ,effectively ending Paulie Malignaggi’s career in top level boxing.