Michel Soro vs George Liddard

This looks like a sensible step up for George Liddard, but Soro isn’t there just to give the youngster rounds. He’s shared a ring with Castaño and Madrimov, and that experience will count. Liddard’s wins over Denny and Morello suggest he’s ready for the examination. I fancy him to pass it.

For me, Liddard needs to establish the jab and make Soro reset before putting combinations together. He must finish those attacks with a step to the side. Hanging about in front of an experienced counterpuncher gives him exactly the opportunity he wants.

Soro’s best chance is to keep things measured, draw Liddard into reaching and put the right hand through the opening. I’d expect him to punish impatience. The question is whether he can maintain enough output when Liddard keeps making him work. At this stage of Soro’s career, I favour the younger man’s sustained pressure over the distance.

I’m going with Liddard by unanimous decision. He’ll have awkward spells, but disciplined pressure, body work and busier combinations should carry him through. He needs to earn the win without trying to prove he can walk through everything.