Hank Lundy vs. Mauricio Herrera
This fight could be very boring, yet these are two men with unexciting styles that still manage to be in some exciting fights. Lundy is the bigger puncher of the two, but Herrera has an iron chin. Herrera probably won't hurt Hammerin Hank either, so it will be down to boxing skills. Don't believe the hype of Herrera's recent bad luck.. he has won as many close decisions as he has lost.. and it was always the slicker boxers (Mike Dallas and Cleotis Pendarvis) who were crying foul after losing to Mauricio. Lundy is better than both of them. Powerful fighters have been Lundy's undoing, and Herrera is not likely to hit hard enough to stop the boxing skills. Lundy by easier than expected UD.
Sharif Bogere vs. Michael Angelo Perez
Bogere and Perez are both boxers who have needed exposure, and second chances. Bogere losing to Abril is nothing to be ashamed of... as many can argue that Abril has never legitimately lost a fight. However, will he bounce back after the loss, or with "The Artist" be too tough, and have too much momentum? I am not totally sold on Perez, and think the 2nd chance is coming at the perfect time for Bogere. It won't be scintillating, but Perez will be chasing Sharif all night. Bogere by UD.
Tony Harrison vs. Willie Nelson
Nelson has never shied away from fighting the toughest opposition. Yet, I believe that has ultimately caught up with him. While he may be the first to really tag the young upstart Harrison, his own chin is not perfect. This is a legit test for Harrison, and maybe the first one of his career, but an unbeaten Nelson would have been more confident, and more effective. I think his heart, combined with his upright style, will actually make it an easier night for Harrison. Harrison by 3rd round KO, probably after many knockdowns.
Sergei Kovalev vs. Nadjib Mohamedi
One thing that the Frenchman will likely not be is afraid. Although Anatoliy Dudchecnko is not a world beater, he was a big puncher, and Mohamedi took his best shots, rolled with most of them, and came back with a ferocity that belied his record. He will be more motivated now than he has ever been, but will it be enough? No. In a word, no. This is a different level, and even if Kovalev starts slow, he will be in the groove by round 2, breaking down Mohamedi quickly. Kovalev by 4th round KO, probably with a towel being thrown in, as the Frenchman tries to fire back.
JULY 2015 BOXING PREDICTIONS PART 2
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com