Weigh-In Results and Match Preview
On Friday, February 15th, Arnold Barboza Jr. and Jack Catterall both weighed in at 139 3/4 pounds for their highly anticipated 12-round fight for the vacant WBO interim light welterweight title. The event will take place at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England, and will be broadcast live on DAZN. Both fighters are in prime condition and ready to deliver an electrifying performance.
The Stakes Are High
Promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing has made it clear that the winner of the Catterall vs. Barboza Jr. fight stands a strong chance of being elevated to the full WBO 140-lb champion. This scenario will come into play when Teofimo Lopez vacates or is stripped of his title for failing to defend against the interim champion. Despite his formidable record, Lopez is notably reluctant to face Barboza Jr. (31-0, 11 KOs), suggesting that this young talent might be a significant threat.
Catterall’s Imprint of Shakur
Jack Catterall (30-1, 13 KOs) has modeled his fighting style after the renowned Shakur Stevenson. Since his controversial 12-round decision loss to former undisputed champion Josh Taylor on February 26, 2022, Catterall has put together four consecutive wins. His style is characterized by precision, speed, and defensive prowess, much like Stevenson. However, Barboza Jr. is a different beast altogether. His raw talent and comprehensive skill set could pose a significant challenge to Catterall’s imitative style.
Barboza Jr.’s Dominance
Arnold Barboza Jr. is widely regarded as one of the most talented fighters in the 140-lb division. His versatility and ring intelligence make him a formidable opponent for anyone. Jose Ramirez, a former champion, found some success against Barboza Jr. by focusing on his power game in their fight on November 16, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. The lesson from Ramirez’s bout is that pressure and hard punches are necessary to give Barboza Jr. any trouble. Unfortunately for Catterall, he lacks both the power and the pressure-fighting prowess that could have given him an edge.
Barboza Jr.’s Confidence
Arnold Barboza Jr. exuded confidence at the weigh-in, expressing his readiness to give UK fans a memorable show. “I’m hoping to give the UK fans a great show. Hopefully, some of these fans will come back with me,” he told DAZN Boxing. Barboza Jr. is prepared for any outcome, whether it’s a knockout or a decision, emphasizing his team’s hard work and his readiness to go the distance. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a knockout or if it goes the distance. We’re ready to go 15 rounds if need be or ready to six to stop him,” he added.
Catterall’s Determination
Jack Catterall, on the other hand, remains focused and determined. “I’m super focused. I have one more sleep tonight. All the hard work’s done with the team. I’m going to rest and relax and stay tuned for tomorrow night,” he said. Despite the tough challenge ahead, Catterall believes in his abilities and is confident in his preparation. “Jack Catterall wins,” he declared, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive bout.
The stage is set for an intriguing match that could redefine the landscape of the 140-lb division. Will Arnold Barboza Jr. continue his undefeated streak and secure the interim title, or will Jack Catterall’s imitative style prove to be the key to victory? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: boxing fans are in for a treat this Saturday night in Manchester.
