Daniel Jacobs vs. Peter Quillin
This fight is finally happening, and for the reason we figured it would... there is no one left. Andy Lee has taken his show to his fellow British Isles opponents. GGG-Canelo-Cotto are on a collision course for the legit championship. This fight, which has made sense for years, is finally happening. Jacobs and Quillin are both punchers with heart, while Jacobs is a much better finisher, and Quillin a better boxer. Both are from Brooklyn, and have compelling personal stories. They also have a big respect for one another, and the fight itself will be intriguing, but there may be a wild card here. Getting dropped by light hitting Sergio Mora was not a good way to go into this fight for Jacobs. I give him a punchers chance, but Quillin is fairly careful. Kid Chocolate by UD, after some tense moments early.
Jesus Cuellar vs. Jonathan Oquendo
Oquendo may have earned this shot legitimately over Jhonny Gonzalez, but there is still the feeling that he may not be ready for it. Cuellar, on the other hand, has been chomping at the bit for more showcase fights. Oquendo is tough, but that will only take him rounds. Cuellar by UD, and then hopefully a unification fight with Pedraza, who should be ex-champion after his loss/win over Edner Cherry.
Dominick Breazeale vs. Charles Martin
I am most excited for this fight than any other at heavyweight this year.. including Fury-Klitschko and Wilder-Stiverne. Yes belts may be on the line there, but these are two American heavyweights who can hit like tons of bricks. They are both unbeaten and largely untested. These types of fights just don't happen anymore, and this is a great throwback. Breazeale has the Olympic pedigree, but one may argue that Martin has looked more polished. This is also not the first time Martin has been pitted against another prospect. I have been fortunate to see both live, and unless his confidence betrays him, Martin should catch him eventually. Martin by mid rounds KO.
Denis Shafikov vs. Rances Barthelemy
Barthelemy has looked vulnerable before, but not as frozen as Shafikov in the Russian's only other shot at the title. It is near impossible to look good against Miguel Vasquez, and neither man did, but I think Barthelemy is too good, and too confident. The Cuban by UD, in a dull affair.
DECEMBER 2015 BOXING PREDICTIONS PART 2
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com