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

Frank Martin takes on former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy on October 25, serving as the lead-in to Sebastian Fundora vs. Keith Thurman, as we look at how the fight could play out. 

Martin (18-1, 12 KOs) returns after suffering the first professional defeat of his career, a tough eighth-round knockout loss to WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta Davis in June 2024. Martin has now moved up to junior welterweight (140-pound) division. 

Martin’s opponent, the veteran Rances Barthelemy (30-3-1, 15 KOs), has seen better days. The 35-year-old Cuban has struggled recently, losing two of his last three fights. His setbacks include a TKO defeat to Gary Antuanne Russell in July 2022 and a unanimous decision loss to former unified champion Jose Carlos Ramirez in April 2024. 

Reaction

“I’m excited to be back after people tried to bash me for taking one loss. I took it as a lesson learned, and I’m back mentally and physically at the top of my game.” Rances is gonna have to deal with everything I went through, and he’s gonna feel it on every punch. I’m back, and I’m pissed off and dangerous,” Martin said 

“October 25 is the night I remind everyone who Rances Barthelemy is. Frank Martin is a talented fighter, but I’ve been in deep waters before, and experience counts when the lights are brightest. I’m coming with new hunger, sharper focus, and the fire of a man chasing one more world title run. Fans tuning in are going to see me determined to leave everything in the ring. I’m not here to survive, I’m here to dominate and make sure my name is back on everyone’s radar,” Barthelemy said 

The Approach

Martin’s primary strategy will be based on speed, movement, and high volume. He will use his southpaw stance and quick footwork to move in and out of Barthelemy’s range, preventing the veteran from setting his feet. For example, Martin should employ sharp combinations and quickly feet, never staying in front for long. Crucially, the extra weight at 140 pounds should provide Martin with increased punching power and stamina. He will look to aggressively target Barthelemy’s body early on, testing the 35-year-old’s resolve and fitness. 

Barthelemy (30-3-1) understands that he cannot match Martin’s athleticism, meaning his strategy must be one of control. The former two-division champion will focus on slowing the tempo, utilizing his jab to maintain distance, and forcing Martin into an uncomfortable mid-range battle. Barthelemy will attempt to exploit Martin’s inexperience at 140 pounds by using feints and movement to draw Martin into throwing wide, off-balance shots, then capitalizing with sharp counter-punches.