Atif Oberlton vs Deon Nicholson

This is a useful test for Oberlton. Nicholson brings enough power to punish carelessness, but I fancy the southpaw’s ability to control distance to make the difference.

Oberlton’s advantage is how he uses that long jab to set up his left hand. Against Gongora, he mixed his targets and landed hard without needing to force every exchange. I’d want the same patience here: occupy Nicholson’s lead hand, put the left downstairs and step away before the reply. Getting greedy with combinations would give Nicholson his chance.

Nicholson comes forward behind a firm jab, looking to bring his right hand through. That’s a dangerous weapon against a southpaw, but he must close the distance with his feet. Reaching for Oberlton would leave him available for the straight left.

I reckon Oberlton makes Nicholson reset too often to sustain his attacks, then picks him off as the rounds go on. Oberlton by unanimous decision.