Rafael Espinoza vs Ricardo Blandon

I see this as a mismatch. Blandon deserves respect for stepping in, but short notice against someone with Espinoza’s size and sustained output is a rough assignment. Giving away reach is one problem; having to keep working once you’ve got past it is another.

What I like about Espinoza is that he doesn’t rely entirely on being the taller man. He can shorten his punches, bring uppercuts through the middle and keep combinations going at close quarters. Blandon cannot simply duck under the jab and expect safety. His best chance is to make Espinoza reset: draw the lead, step across and answer before moving again. Espinoza’s willingness to exchange can leave openings, but Blandon needs the timing and discipline to exploit them.

I’d want Espinoza patient early, touching the body and finding his distance rather than reaching down for the head. Once Blandon starts backing straight up or covering without replying, the combinations should take over. I’m picking Espinoza by stoppage inside 6 rounds. I expect the difference in size and workload to become decisive.