Boxing: Cheeseman favored in middleweight clash against Eggington

Two tough-as-nails European junior middleweights, Sam Eggington and Ted Cheeseman, will fight in a regional clash that is sure to be a grinder on Aug. 1.

This fight should satisfy the appetite for those looking for a give-and-take boxing battle.Here is the inside scoop for this regional showdown.

Eggington vs. Cheeseman is nearly too close to call

While neither fighter would be mistaken as elite in one of boxing’s deepest divisions, Eggington and Cheeseman have shown their grit and have made a name for themselves on the European circuit. Cheeseman has more upside, because of his crisper boxing skills, but this fight is practically a toss-up that will be hotly contested until the finish.

Cheeseman should have gotten the nod against fellow prospect Scott Fitzgerald in his last fight, but he has shown enough to be a sizeable favorite against his British countryman. Critical to Cheeseman's strategy will be pressuring Eggington and getting the better of their exchanges in close quarters. While Eggington is the more seasoned fighter, he hasn’t done much to write home about, outside of beating a badly faded Paulie Malignaggi three years ago.

Eggington has been matched poorly since Liam Smith battered him last year and has won his last four fights against confidence boosters. We won't mistake Eggington’s activity as any sort of advantage because Cheeseman is the best opponent he has faced since Smith. Grit doesn’t often beat class, but it can certainly be a factor if Cheeseman decides to mindlessly engage in close quarters.

Pace is key for Eggington

This could turn into an entertaining bout between otherwise forgettable fighters, because they are evenly matched and flawed. Cheeseman and Eggington aren’t strong enough to spark the other out and not slick enough to get out of the other’s way.

Eggington tends to slow down at a higher pace, which leaves himself open for big shots, thanks to fatigue and his leaky defense. That could be the difference.

Cheeseman is the best bet

Cheeseman’s body of work and his dynamic skill set makes him the better fighter, but it will be a rough fight.

Both men might be bloodied and battered after 12 rounds, but Cheeseman will walk out of the ring with the decision win.

Boxing free pick: Cheeseman (-335)