Johnny Fisher vs Michael Pirotton

This is a sensible rebuilding fight for Johnny Fisher. Michael Pirotton is big, durable and has never been stopped, but he hasn’t operated anywhere near the level needed to make Fisher an outsider. The danger comes if Johnny starts believing the crowd noise and goes looking for a highlight-reel finish.

Pirotton is big at around 6ft 5in with long arms, whereas Fisher is the more aggressive and heavier-handed. The Belgian’s reach could make the opening rounds awkward if he keeps the jab out and ties Johnny up inside. The problem is that Pirotton isn’t a spiteful puncher and tends to box at a manageable pace. You can’t give Fisher time to set his feet.

Technically, Fisher must stop loading up on every right hand. Dave Allen exposed his upright posture, loose guard and poor recovery when caught clean. Johnny needs a stiff jab into Pirotton’s chest, then the right hand downstairs before bringing it over the top. Pirotton’s chance is to keep Fisher reaching, catch him walking in and drag him into the later rounds. If he backs straight onto the ropes, he’ll get pulled apart.

I expect Pirotton to survive the early rush, but Fisher’s pressure and body punching should steadily empty him.

Fisher wins by stoppage, though he’ll need to show more patience than he has in the past.