Super Fly 2
What is the best match that can be made in boxing today? Fair to say a number of different answers may qualify. Even so, a strong case could be presented in favor of Saturday’s WBC World Super Flyweight Championship fight. Featuring two of the best prize fighters alive, with all the makings of a classic. Belt holder Srisaket Sor Rungvisai of Thailand will defend his title against #1 contender Juan Francisco Estrada of Mexico. Here we look at how they compare.
Rungvisai (44-4-1, 40 KOs) enters the ring coming off a breakout year in 2017. The southpaw chalked up consecutive wins over all time great Roman Gonzalez, ending an epic reign in the process. At 17 wins in a row and counting, he is on a tear. The 31-year-old has garnered enough attention to be mentioned on the mythical pound for pound list by pundits as well. A real destructive force in the 115 lb division. As fearsome as Rungvisai is, Estrada still offers a unique challenge.
Estrada (36-2, 25 KOs) is a hidden gem. One that has only been obscured by other huge names from his boxing rich nation. At 27 years of age, Estrada comes into what should be his absolute prime. His brilliance now ready to shine. The orthodox challenger also warrants inclusion on such exalted pound for pound lists. This former unified flyweight champ vacated his titles to move up. With his own streak of 10 straight victories, ‘El Gallo’ aims to claim a world title in his second weight class. And will need to use every bit of his considerable skill to win.
This contest represents a fascinating mix of styles. Rungvisai a stalking type with jarring power. Estrada the master technician with expert level ringcraft. The champion is cold and calculating. He delivers punishing body shots. Also exhibits a zombie like quality, not afraid to walk through enemy fire to land. Rungvisai’s punches often come from odd trajectories, very hard to anticipate. Plus he’s tough as a $2 steak. Estrada must remain on high alert. Use good lateral movement and create angles that are favorable for him. Avoid staying in the pocket for long. A tactical error that could play right into the champion’s deadly hands.
At the same time, Rungvisai hopes to draw Estrada into a firefight. By having more heavy artillery, that is a sound strategy. A couple of things that Estrada should keep in mind: Rungvisai can be pretty easy to find. You don’t really have to search for him. He also may be sloppy at times. Those are moments ‘El Gallo’ can exploit. But of course that theory is far more difficult when putting it into practice. Estrada must be conscious of keeping his work rate up as well. Rungvisai will more than likely apply steady pressure on him. Estrada can’t get outhustled here.
This truly is a first class tilt. Add in the prestigious RING Championship at junior bantamweight and there is much at stake. The winner’s legacy enhanced greatly as the loser starts anew. This bout headlines a Superfly II card. Sequel to the smash hit Superfly last September. Tune into HBO: Boxing After Dark (9:30 PM EST) from The Forum in Inglewood, CA and don’t miss any of this action. See boxing history taking shape live.
By: 3Kings Boxing
