Gabriel Campillo vs. Andrzej Fonfara
Fonfara is still proving himself, and Campillo is coming off a brutal KO loss. However, Fonfara is getting better each fight, and building a Polish-American fan base, so he is worth watching. Campillo's loss to Kovalev is also a bit forgivable when you see how the Russian won exactly the same way in his next fight, and is now getting a title shot. There is also the fact that it was only the 2nd legitimate loss in the Spaniard's career. He is again going into the lions den, and I do not know why he keeps taking those chances with judges in his opponents' hometowns. This time it will be a bit more legitimate. Fonfara will use pressure to win by close, but justifiable UD.
Nathan Cleverly vs. Sergei Kovalev
Speaking of Kovalev, this is the last belt holder I thought would take a chance on him. Shumenov is a non-entity, and Pascal cannot get healthy, but I honestly thought Kovalev would get in there with Hopkins or Stevenson before Cleverly's team took a chance. The two men fight the same, pretty much, except Kovalev does it with a ton more power. Unless Clev has an iron chin that has not been tested yet, this does not end well for the Welshman. Kovalev by 5th round KO, in an exciting brawl while it lasts.
Daniel Geale vs. Darren Barker
Barker has made his reputation largely in losing competitively to Sergio Martinez. Martinez is typically not dominant in his victories (Chavez Jr being a noteworthy exception), so I wouldn't take much stock in that. Geale knows how to win decisions, and keep resetting so defensively efficient fighters get caught with shots they do not see. He also has good stamina, and knows how to impress judges. Geale by UD, in a fight not exciting enough to make people clamor for a fight with Golovkin.
Johnny Gonzalez vs. Abner Mares
Mares is being matched very carefully, because although he is technically undefeated, he has serious flaws which will eventually be exposed. The only fighters near him who may do so are with a rival promoter, so we are seeing the next best thing... exciting fights, where he is a big favorite. Rigo and Donaire are with Top Rank, so although both would beat Mares, we will probably see Mares continue to climb divisions and collect hardware until he suffers a surprise defeat. Gonzalez both wins and loses fights in exciting fashion, and just when you think he is done, he scores a good victory. I do not see that happening here. Mares will slip Gonzalez's power shots and break him down... winning by 7th round KO, in a bloody affair.
AUGUST BOXING PREDICTIONS PART 2
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com