Brian Norman Jr vs Abel Ramos

This is sensible rebuilding for Norman, but Ramos is no soft touch. Abel’s draw with Barrios and win over Tahmir Smalls tell me he’s still capable of spoiling somebody’s plans. Norman has the heavier, sharper combinations, but the Haney defeat exposed how frustrated he becomes when he can’t establish his distance.

I want Brian working behind the jab and making Ramos commit first. His uppercut can punish Abel coming forward, particularly if he follows it with a hook and steps away. Standing square after throwing would give Ramos a chance to answer. Brian must earn his openings instead of loading up because he expects the older man to fold.

Ramos needs to get his chest close, work the body and keep Norman occupied between attacks. His experience matters there. The danger is following Brian without cutting off the exit, taking two or three clean punches just to get within reach. Toughness won’t win those exchanges on its own.

I’m picking Norman by unanimous decision. I expect his quicker combinations to separate them, but Ramos has enough craft and grit to make him work throughout. Brian should take the rounds available rather than turn a manageable fight into an unnecessary brawl.