The matchups produced by Saturday night’s Queensberry vs. Matchroom 5 v 5 event are undeniably one of its most enticing qualities.
Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn, both promoters, were requested to select two weight divisions each for the distinctive occasion. Turki Alalshikh, the individual credited for resolving the conflict in British boxing, chose an additional class. Now that Warren and Hearn are collaborating and communicating effectively, they have successfully arranged the fights, creating immense anticipation for the upcoming event.
Deontay Wilder, Daniel Dubois, Austin “Ammo” Williams, Nick Ball, and Willy Hutchinson are expected to be defeated by Zhilei Zhang, Filip Hrgovic, Hamzah Sheeraz, Raymond Ford, and Craig Richards, respectively, during the upcoming weekend.
But will they? Boxing News assesses what chances the five underdogs have of winning in Riyadh.
DEONTAY WILDER vs. Zhilei Zhang (Heavyweight)
Despite his impressive pedigree, it may come as a surprise to some that Wilder (13/10) is not considered the favorite in this heavyweight match. This could be attributed to his disappointing performance against Joseph Parker in his previous fight. It is quite shocking that his odds are not even higher considering how ordinary and one-dimensional he appeared without his renowned knockout power. Once known as the most fearsome puncher of this era, Wilder’s lackluster display has left many questioning his abilities.
With that being mentioned, Wilder assures a forthcoming bout that will expose the aggression that was absent during his strategic match against Parker. Although Zhang (8/13) may not possess the same agility as the New Zealander, he does hold formidable strength that could potentially bring an end to Wilder’s career once and for all.
Verdict: Wilder’s showing against Parker was concerning. But against a hittable target like Zhang, there is every possibility that the former WBC champion could recapture his spark.
On April 15, 2024, in London, England, Zhilei Zhang and Deontay Wilder engaged in a face-off during the 5v5 press conference leading up to their fight in the Artur Beterbiev and Dmitrill Bivol WBA, WBC, IBF & WBO Light Heavyweight bout at Outernet London. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
DANIEL DUBOIS vs. Filip Hrgovic (Heavyweight)
Dubois’ career has been a rollercoaster ride, and now he is just one victory away from another chance at a world title. Despite being ultimately defeated, the Londoner gave his all in a bout against heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk nine months ago. In December, Dubois found himself more comfortable facing Jarrell Miller, a relentless fighter known for his high work-rate.
Dubois confronted his opponent head-on and successfully halted the American in the last round. Hrgovic, the current IBF mandatory challenger, presents a contrasting challenge as he tends to be inconsistent. The Croatian fighter (4/9) is anticipated to possess superior training compared to the British fighter (7/4), although the impressive showing against Miller truly boosted his confidence.
Verdict: It may well depend on which Hrgovic turns up. Dubois has more than a puncher’s chance but a strong start is needed from the 26-year-old.
On December 23, 2023, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Daniel Dubois is seen observing the Heavyweight bout between Daniel Dubois and Jarrell Miller at the Kingdom Arena, as part of the Day of Reckoning: Fight Night event. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
AUSTIN “AMMO” WILLIAMS vs. Hamzah Sheeraz (Middleweight)
Ever since Williams joined Matchroom more than five years ago, his promoter Eddie Hearn has consistently had great expectations for the Texan. Although the 28-year-old’s development has been steady, it hasn’t been outstanding. However, going up against Sheeraz, he will be confronting one of Britain’s most thrilling prospects.
This highly anticipated middleweight contenders’ clash is the litmus test in both men’s careers. Williams (7/4) may be the type of fighter who needs someone as dangerous as Sheeraz (4/9) to bring out the best in him. The American does most things well but lacks the same constant threat Sheeraz carries throughout a fight.
Verdict: Something’s got to give in this one. Unbeaten records and reputations are on the line. Williams, like Dubois, must get to the second half of the fight to have a chance.
On September 17 in Las Vegas, Austin Williams reveals his thoughts on Kieron Conway (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NICK BALL vs. Raymond Ford (Featherweight)
In March, Ball came extremely close to securing the WBC featherweight championship against Rey Vargas, only to be granted a split-draw outcome. Now, he is set to challenge Raymond Ford, the WBA titlist who achieved a remarkable victory over Otabek Kholmatov in March to claim the title.
Following that, Ball encounters a more challenging opportunity. Ford has demonstrated his ability to maintain strength and endurance throughout a fight, persisting from the first to the twelfth round. However, there are concerns whether the New Jersey native has remained at the 126lbs weight class for too long. Ball (11/8) is now aware of his place at the international level and needs to make Ford (4/7) feel uneasy right from the start, in order to assess the difficulties the title holder has faced in making weight for the championship.
Verdict: Ball will feel a sense of injustice after fighting Vargas. Ford is a better fighter than the Mexican but there are questions over his weight and the quick turnaround after his battle with Kholmatov.
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WILLY HUTCHINSON vs. Craig Richards (Light-heavyweight)
Hutchinson has always been recognized as a highly skilled individual, but things took a turn for the worse when he overestimated his capabilities and faced Lennox Clarke three years ago, despite his lack of experience. This defeat for the British title served as a tough lesson for the Scottish fighter who has since won four consecutive fights against mediocre opponents. On the other hand, Richards has proven himself through various trials and has displayed remarkable improvement under the guidance of his new trainer, Shane McGuigan. His latest match against Boris Crighton in February showcased his enhanced performance.
Hutchinson, known for his forceful approach, will need to deliver the kind of performance that Frank Warren has been eagerly anticipating in his match against Richards (8/11), a seasoned fighter whose losses to Dmitry Bivol and Joshua Buatsi have demonstrated his exceptional skills. This presents another risky opportunity for Hutchinson (11/10), requiring him to take a leap of faith.
Verdict: Hutchinson isn’t short of confidence and this fight will tell us how far he can go in the sport. Everything will have to come together against his toughest opponent to date.
Willy Hutchinson
OVERALL VERDICT: If any of the favourites lose, Zhang and Richards are the most likely to do so.
