Erislandy Lara vs Tim Tszyu

This is a genuine 50–50 fight for me. On neutral ground, I’d be more confident backing Lara, but in Australia, with the crowd behind Tszyu and every burst of pressure getting a roar, it’s a much tighter call. I’m still going with Lara, but only just.

Tszyu’s best work comes when he gets his feet set close enough to drive the right hand into the body. I’d have him jab at Lara’s chest and step across to shut off the exit. If he follows Lara round and reaches for the head, that little half-step back from the Cuban will leave him punching short and open for the straight left.

The tight rounds are where I think Lara’s experience will tell. He knows when to stand his ground, get two clean shots off and turn Tszyu before he can answer. Tim will make him work for every round he gets, but I fancy Lara to pinch enough of the close ones. Lara by split decision.