Frank Martin Vs. Rances Barthelemy – How Does It Play Out?

Frank Martin has his first fight of 2025, as he will box Rances Barthelemy on October 25. 

Martin has been active for around 16 months, following his stoppage loss in June last year to Gervonta Davis. The bout takes place on the Sebastian Fundora vs. Keith Thurman card. Martin had been in talks to face Edwin De Los Santos, but it never materialized. Meanwhile, Barthelemy is not in the best form. Two defeats from his previous three, means he is a heavy underdog. Here is how the fight could play out. 

The Approach

Martin’s path to victory lies in his speed, slick footwork, and southpaw angles. Before his knockout loss to Davis, Martin was known for his ability to use his athleticism to set up combinations and outbox his opponents. Coming off a 16-month layoff, his primary goal will be to shake off any ring rust and quickly establish his rhythm. He will look to use his speed and youth to overwhelm the older Barthelemy, pushing a fast pace that the veteran may not be able to keep up with. 

As a former two-division champion, Barthelemy has faced a variety of styles and knows how to manage a fight. Barthelemy will likely try to slow the pace down and use his jab to keep Martin on the outside, preventing him from using his footwork and speed. He’ll be looking for opportunities to counter-punch Martin, knowing that the younger fighter might make a mistake after a long layoff. Martin is ready to silence his critics.

“I got a lot of muscle, everybody knows that. I just feel like my last two weight cuts were real tough on me. In my last fight, my legs started getting tired in probably the fifth round. It felt like my body shut down.” After a year-long layoff, Martin hopes for activity but doesn’t have an opponent lined up, nor a fight date to return. One thing he does have, however, is a new weight class to operate in. I’m a cause hell at 140. Whoever wants it, come get it,” Martin said