Kenshiro Teraji looking to make his seventh successful title defense!
When: December 23, 2019
Where: Yokohama Arena, Yokohama, Japan
Network: ESPN+
Time: 3AM EST
Unbeaten Kenshiro Teraji (16-0, 9 KOs) puts the WBC Light Flyweight title on the line for the seventh time against Randy Petalcorin (31-3-1, 23 KOs). Originally scheduled to face IBF 108-pound champion Felix Alvarado, will Shiro come into bout fully focused?
Having failed in two previous world title opportunities (against Omari Kimweri for the vacant WBC Silver flyweight title and to Felix Alvarado in a shot at the vacant IBF light flyweight title), will this be a case of third time’s the charm for the challenger?
Kenshiro Teraji
Tall for his division at 5’ 5”, Teraji likes to use his height and reach to keep his opponents at bay and dictate the terms of a fight. His best weapon is the jab which is arguably the best in the division.
While the 27-year-old’s preferred method of fighting is from the outside, he has shown the ability to step forward when necessary. He is not afraid to stand there and fight.
His go-to power punch is the right hand; a short and accurate shot which he’s used to knock fighters out to the head and body. If there’s one weakness he possesses, it’s at times he fights too straight up leaving himself susceptible to headshots.
Keys To Victory: Shiro
Make this an outside fight. Use his advantages in height, length, and size. Work the jab early and often. If this fight is engaged at range, it’s more advantageous for Shiro.
Petalcorin has shown he can be hurt to the body (during his loss to Alvarado). Invest in some bodywork to weaken the challenger as the fight goes along.
Randy Petalcorin
The 27-year-old southpaw from General Santos City, Philippines is a boxer who likes to keep the fight at a distance. He is definitely more of a smooth boxing stylist than a come hard-charging brawler.
Possessing good foot movement and excellent hand speed, he loves to step around and create angles to land shots. A sharp counter-puncher, he loves to set guys up for the short left hand which is the best power shot.
Keys To Victory: Petalcorin
Like Shiro, the jab vital if he is to win. Establish that punch and use his speed and technique to get in and out with shots.
Because he has faster feet, the Filipino must create angles and not become a straight target. It would also be favorable to land with hard shots early to earn some respect.
Prediction
Based on styles and both men’s proclivity to box, this could turn into a stinker. However, in the lead-up, both fighters have predicted a knockout, so things could turn very interesting and exciting.
Petalcorin will have his moments. But in the end, the length, jab and the body-punching of Teraji is the difference as he will successfully retain the title by unanimous decision.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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