Richardson Hitchins vs George Kambosos Jr: Preview & Betting Tips
Image Credit: X: @BoxingBodega
The boxing world turns its attention to Madison Square Garden this weekend as the undefeated IBF world super-welterweight champion, Richardson Hitchins makes the first defence of his title against former unified lightweight champion, George Kambosos Jr.
Hitchins (19-0, 7 KO’s) has systematically built his impressive perfect record, recently claiming the IBF strap with a hard-fought split decision win over Liam Paro. He’s known for his slick, defensive, and technically sound boxing, often relying on his jab and movement to control fights.
On the other side, Kambosos Jr (22-3, 10 KO’s)brings a wealth of experience at the elite level. His crowning achievement was his stunning upset victory over Teofimo Lopez in 2021, where he unified the lightweight division. While his reign was brief, losing twice to Devin Haney and then being stopped by Vasyl Lomachenko, Kambosos has consistently shown resilience and a willingness to fight the best. He bounced back from the Lomachenko loss with a recent points victory over Jake Wyllie, earning this title shot.
Tale of the Tape
Richardson Hitchins – Odds 1.08 (Bet 365)
Record: 19-0, 7 KO’s
Age: 27
Height: 5ft10
Reach: 74”
Weight: Super-lightweight
Stance: Orthodox
George Kambosos Jr – Odds 8.50 (Bet 365)
Record: 22-3, 10 KO’s
Age: 31
Height: 5ft9
Reach: 68”
Weight: Super-lightweight
Stance: Orthodox
Richardson Hitchins vs George Kambosos Jr: Analysis
Richardson Hitchins will aim to establish his jab early, maintain distance, and frustrate Kambosos Jr with his excellent defensive movements. The Australian, however, will need to find a way to cut off the ring, get inside, and land his combinations to have any success.
His speed might cause Hitchins some trouble early on , but the champion has great composure and has a six-inch reach advantage which should allow him to control the range to his liking.
Many expect a fight similar to the American’s recent outing against Liam Paro, which was a competitive but ultimately controlled performance from the IBF champion.
The challenger’s aggressive and high-pressure style has seen him be in some absolute wars over the last few years, and while he’s shown toughness, he won’t want to be taking too many clean shots, even despite Hitchins’ lack of KO power.
Hitchins vs Kambosos Jr: Prediction & Betting Tips
As expected, Richardson Hitchins is the overwhelming favourite. His skill set, undefeated record, and home advantage point towards a comfortable enough and albeit potentially unexciting victory.
We know the style that both men bring. Hitchins will look to point-score from the outside and constantly keep himself out of harm’s way. Meanwhile, Kambosos Jr will come forward with hand speed and pressure, but he’ll have to eat a couple of shots on the way inside.
This could really be a bull vs matador type of fight, with Kambosos Jr being the bull of course. On paper, Hitchins should be too technically superior and smarter than the Australian to get caught up in a toe-to-toe war, which is exactly what Kambosos Jr will want.
The logical play here would be to pick Richardson Hitchins to win by decision or technical decision at odds of 1.50 (Bet 365). If you’re looking for better odds, you can pair this up with Andy Cruz to beat Hironori Mishiro via decision or technical decision which would create a double at 2.43 (Bet 365).
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