It's a fairly slow month compared to what some Februarys have brought us, but it still has potential for explosive endings.
Derry Mathews vs. Terry Flanagan
Mathews, like Flanagan has been a mainstay in the British 135lb scene. However, Flanagan is on his way up, while Mathews seems on his way down. His durability and toughness may force Flanagan to dig deeper, and go the full 12, but he should win most of the rounds fairly easily. Flanagan by UD
Fedor Chudinov vs. Felix Sturm
Cannot believe Sturm is still fighting, but maybe that is because I just wish he would stop. For Chudinov, this is a step up, even if Sturm is a shell (or just fights in one). I like Fedor to be motivated, and make a statement... or as much of one as Felix's safety first style will allow. Chudinov by MD.
Terrence Crawford vs. Hank Lundy
Ok, so Crawford doesn't need help looking dominant, or gathering KOs, so why Hank Lundy, who has always been nothing more than an exciting B-level fighter? Because he wants to stay active, and remain in the public consciousness, and fight fans know Lundy. He talks a good game, and shows a great deal of offensive skill and heart. However, it probably won't take long for class to truly show. Crawford may lose a round or two, but he will end matters by round 7, probably in brutal fashion.
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Kiko Martinez
Finally, Santa Cruz has an opponent who may be as tough and resourceful as he is. However, Santa Cruz is younger, better, and can do more things. If Martinez makes a brave stand, Leo will simply box, as he recently showed he can do. Martinez will likely get busted up, and lose by TKO late in the fight, after scarcely winning a round.
Carl Frampton vs. Scott Quigg
A big fight in Europe, that could be very entertaining. The immediate prize for the winner is unified championship, national bragging rights, and international respect. However, the eventual prize is a long boring loss to Guillermo Rigondeaux. Enjoy it while it lasts, boys. Frampton probably has more overall skills and ability, even if Quigg has the faster start. Frampton by UD, after turning it into a boxing match in the second half.
Marco Huck vs,. Ola Afolabi 4
They are usually pretty exciting when they fight, and if Afolabi had ever been allowed to get a win, this would be more interesting, but I guess promoters are hoping for a Pacquiao v. Marquez like scenario. I don't think Ola has that in him at this stage, even if Huck is reeling from his KO loss to Glowacki. I think Huck has more left, and will win a wider UD, while Ola languishes on the ropes for most of the fight.
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com