Nick Ball Stops Jesus Rubio and Proves Ready to Step Up
In the featherweight division, prospect Nick Ball (17-0, 10KO) is beginning to gain the attention of the boxing community. The hard-punching 25-year-old made quick work of Jesus Ramirez Rubio (20-2-3, 14KO), and could look to face James “Jazza” Dickens (32-4, 12KO) in 2023.
On November 11 at York Hall, fans packed the arena and were not disappointed as Ball decimated Rubio in the first round. The young prospect wasted no time landing big shots and sent his opponent to the canvas with a hard left hook.
Rubio got up only to be knocked back down by another powerful left hook. At this point, it was target practice as Ball scored the third knockdown before pummeling Rubio against the ropes, forcing the referee to stop the contest.
Ball is learning on the job after entering the professional ranks with only 27 amateur fights. Despite the lack of amateur experience, he has managed to receive a #12 (WBO) and #14 (WBC) ranking.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR BALL?
Ball has never competed for belts on the domestic level. He won the WBC silver title against Isaac Lowe on April 23. In addition, he has knocked out four straight opponents, including Rubio, while successfully defending said WBC title.
It is time to step up in competition against another ranked fighter. Looking at the foreseeable future, a fight against Dickens could be next. Ranked #9 (IBF) and #14 (WBO), Jazza has good experience at the championship level as a two-divisional title challenger. Furthermore, he holds a victory over current WBA ‘regular’ champion Leigh Wood.
A fight between these two in Liverpool would pack the arena with fans as it could be built as an in-town rivalry. Moreover, Ball would see a huge surge in the ranking, if victorious.
Whatever decision or direction Team Ball takes, they are riding a wave of momentum going into 2023.
By: Garrisson Bland
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