Will Campbell get his revenge against Mendy?
It’s said, “Revenge is a dish best served cold,” and Luke Campbell (18-2, 15 KOs) will have his shot at serving it this Saturday, September 22 when he battles Yvan Mendy (40-1, 19 KOs). The two will square-off live on the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs. Alexander Povetkin. The event, taking place in Wembley Stadium, will officially kickoff Matchroom Boxing’s multi-fight deal with the online sports streaming app, DAZN.
Campbell
The 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist from Yorkshire fought Mendy to a split decision loss back in December of 2015. At the time, he proved to be Campbell’s toughest opponent; his proverbial “Welcome to professional boxing,” if you will. All in one night, Mendy would be the first to beat Campbell, knock him down, and take the title he was defending for the first time.
Since then, Campbell has gained good experience. Despite losing to Jorge Linares in 2017, he proved that he’s just as talented as many believed. Nonetheless, going into this fight, Campbell has to put it all together. He will need to remember what Yvan did that bothered him, how his adversary fights now, and adjust his style accordingly.
Advice to Campbell: Be accurate, jab hard, and step to the side instead of moving backward when Mendy comes forward.
Mendy
Having beat Luke Campbell before, Yvan Mendy comes into this fight riding a wave. The Frenchman has strung together seven consecutive victories; capturing the WBC Silver Lightweight title, in the process. Needless to say; confidence is something he won’t lack going into Saturday’s bout.
When he fought Campbell the first time, Mendy executed his game plan perfectly. He applied pressure, stayed busy, and made the less experienced Campbell fight off his back foot. This fight, he will need to do more of the same.
Mendy’s style can sometimes prove to be a matchup nightmare for boxer’s like Campbell. With over forty fights and never being knocked out, he has demonstrated durability.
Advice to Mendy: Stay close, don’t allow Campbell to use angles and work his body.
Outcome
Campbell wins by split decision. He’s shown some improvement and learned from the Linares loss.
By: Cessell Robinson
