Angelo Leo vs. Stephen Fulton betting odds, preview, and pick
January 22nd, 2021
A battle of undefeated junior featherweights highlights this weekend’s display of the sweet science. Angelo Leo will make the first defense of his world title against the well-regarded Stephen Fulton.
Let's dive into the fight and make a pick.
Let’s try this again
These two were supposed to meet in August, but Fulton contracted COVID-19, which allowed Leo to capture a vacant 122-pound title. While the lingering effects of the virus are unknown for Fulton, he is still the more complete talent and is going into this fight as a comfortable favorite. Fulton’s recent performances suggest he is fighting at a higher level than his record suggests.
Leo vs. Fulton tale of the tape
| Angelo Leo (20-0) | ----- | Stephen Fulton (18-0) |
|---|
26 | Age | 26 |
5'6" | Height | 5'6 1/2" |
69" | Reach | 70 1/2" |
5-0 | Last five fights | 5-0 |
Experience | Key intangibles | Speed |
Leo has benefited from some hands-on care from Floyd Mayweather Jr., but he doesn't pass the eye test. If Leo had power, it would do him wonders against Fulton. Instead, this fight is going to look like a chess match, and that favors the challenger.
Fulton’s class vs. Leo’s grit
Fulton works behind a sharp jab and has excellent footwork. This allows him to fire off sharp combinations and maneuver around the ring to avoid return fire or put himself in position to sustain his offense. Neither fighter has notable power, but Fulton’s technique needs to shine through, as Leo is going to be the aggressor.
Showtime Championship Boxing kicks off 2021 with one of the most anticipated junior featherweight bouts ⏳
— SHOWTIME Boxing (@ShowtimeBoxing) January 21, 2021
Watch #LeoFulton SATURDAY 9PM ET/6PM PT on @Showtime. pic.twitter.com/ncZEwqbQ9f
Leo will need to work Fulton's body to slow him down and take away his legs. If Leo gets too predictable with his pressure, and his "Plan B" is just to do "Plan A" again, Fulton will potshot his way to a win.
Because these two are so young and arguably entering their physical primes, this is a compelling fight that is hard to pick.
Fulton will win a close one
Expect Leo to start walking Fulton down to see what works, in an attempt to put him in the mud. Fulton is likely to adjust in the middle rounds. Leo’s aggressiveness will give Fulton an easy target, while the challenger will chip away and set the pace for the rest of the fight.
Don’t expect a stoppage, but Fulton should score a razor-thin decision win.
Free pick: Fulton -159
ADVERTISEMENT
