In an intriguing super featherweight fight, former two-weight world champion Oscar Valdez takes on super tough contender Liam Wilson at the Desert Diamond Arena on March 29. The 12-round fight, in addition to the undercard, will be broadcast on ESPN+ in the US.
LOOK: Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson, exclusively on ESPN+
Valdez (31-2, 23 KOs) is coming off a heartbreaking 12-round unanimous decision loss to fellow Mexican Emanuel Navarrete in August. Despite being the favorite to win that fight, Valdez couldn’t keep the naturally bigger man away and struggled with his aggression and intensity.
“I’m not looking for easy fights,” he said. Valdez in interview with ProBox. “I’m coming off a loss to Navarette, so this is a great opportunity for me to get back there. We know whoever wins this fight will be one step closer to a world title fight.”
Wilson (13-2, 7 KOs) also lost to Navarrete last year. However, the Australian managed to knock down the Mexican hero before succumbing to a stoppage in the ninth round. His performance in that fight indicates how dangerous he can be at the top level. And while he respects Valdez, Wilson is undeterred.
“I have admired all the great Mexicans, [Marco Antonio] barrier, [Erik] Morales, [Juan Manuel] Marquez, and in a sense, I’m fighting the modern version of them (Navarrete, now Valdez) and I feel privileged to be there with these guys,” Wilson told The Jugo Mobile.
“When I say that, I’m not there to crunch numbers and just compete, I’m there to win… and I’m very confident that I’ll get the win on March 29.”
The Jugo Mobile now provides odds and a final prediction for this crossover clash at 130 pounds:
Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson Odds
By BetMGM, Valdez is the -400 favorite, while Wilson is the +300 underdog. The draw is +2000.
Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson Trends
There are currently no betting trends available for this fight. When they become available, this section will be updated accordingly.
- Valdez via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/DQ: N/A
- Valdez via decision: N/A
- Wilson via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/DQ: N/A
- Wilson’s decision: N/A
Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson Prediction, Best Bets
This promises to be a great fight and the styles will surely fit together.
Valdez is a smart boxer with good skills and a high ring IQ. However, with Mexican blood in his veins, he will never completely shy away from a gunfight and that is precisely what his opponent aims to achieve.
Wilson is the naturally bigger man and even mentioned the possibility of moving up to lightweight. He will not be intimidated by Valdez’s power and it will take a lot to discourage him.
The difference in this fight is likely to be class and experience. While Valdez is not big in weight, he has the skills and variety of punches necessary to quell Wilson’s attacks.
When Wilson slows down, expect Valdez to pick his spots and secure a clear points victory down the stretch.
