The upcoming clash between Ben Crocker and Sean McComb, for Crocker’s IBF European super-lightweight title, is one of the more intriguing bouts on the domestic scene over the next couple of months, and the fight takes place in the legendary boxing city of Sheffield, England.
Full credit must go to Ben Crocker (14-0-1, 2 KO’s). In an era where many fighters opt for the safe route, carefully maneuvering their way through the rankings, Crocker has stepped up to face the man nobody seems eager to share a ring with.
Sean McComb (19-2, 5 KO’s) is not just any opponent. Known as “The Public Nuisance”, the gritty Belfast southpaw has carved out a reputation as one of the toughest assignments in the division.
Ben Crocker – Odds 3.75
Record: 14-0-1, 2 KO’s
Age: 30
Height: N/A
Reach: N/A
Weight: Super-lightweight
Stance: Orthodox
Sean McComb – Odds 1.25
Record: 19-2, 5 KO’s
Age: 33
Height: 6ft
Reach: N/A
Weight: Super-lightweight
Stance: Southpaw
Standing six feet tall, McComb’s physical advantages are matched by slick technical skills and the kind of ring intelligence that only comes from operating at world level. He gave Arnold Barboza a difficult night, pressing him in a way that even Jack Catterall could not. That performance alone cemented McComb as a fighter with genuine world-class pedigree at super-lightweight.
Crocker thrives on pressure, volume, and imposing his will. That energy could allow him to bank early rounds, or at the very least ask serious questions of McComb’s defensive focus. However, the risk for Crocker is walking into counters, being turned by angles, and burning through his gas tank while McComb remains composed.
It is domestic bouts like this that truly gets me excited as a boxing fan. Yes, neither are ever going to be dominant world champions and knockout artists etc. But, they both wear their heart on their sleeves and both refuse to make their fights boring.
McComb’s southpaw jab, superior movement, and composure under pressure should gradually wear down Crocker’s aggression. While Crocker’s toughness may keep him in the fight, the challenge lies in maintaining discipline, avoiding complacency and steadily dismantling McComb.
Ben Crocker deserves respect for taking this leap, but expect Sean McComb’s world-class polish to shine through. McComb’s control of range and ring generalship point towards a decision victory in this one or potentially a late stoppage victory.
My pick is Sean McComb to win by decision or technical decision at odds of 1.53.
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