Jermall Charlo vs. Thomas LaManna: Preview & Betting Tips

Jermall Charlo has long been one of boxing’s most technically refined fighters when he’s fully focused. He has an explosive offense, but he’s become more cautious in recent outings with five of his last six wins coming via decision. 

The huge question mark surrounding Charlo is his hunger at this stage of his career. How much does he have left at the age of 35, and is he even living the life of a dedicated professional? 

The former middleweight world champion is clearly the superior fighter in terms of technical ability, but if he does not take this one seriously then he may find the challenge of Thomas LaManna difficult. Especially considering the 33-year-old will have a point to prove to try and make his mark on the elite stage. 

LaManna’s output, recent form, and belief that Charlo is diminished make him a live underdog. If he can survive the early rounds and drag Charlo into deep waters, then that will be his best chance of picking up a career-best win.

Surely, though, Charlo understands the situation he’s in at this point in his career as a potential showdown against Caleb Plant would be a big payday. And the winner in this future bout could be the next in line for a world title fight at 168-pounds.

Charlo vs LaManna: Prediction & Betting Tips

It’s always difficult to gauge how rusty someone is going to be when they have spent a long time out of the ring, and especially when they’re now closer to the age of 40 than 30 [Charlo]. 

LaManna is no spring chicken himself either at 33, and while he has certainly been much more active over the last three years, his opponents have been nowhere near the standards that a fully fit and focused Jermall Charlo is at.

I don’t think ring rust will not be an issue in this one. Charlo will start fast, putting his shots together against an opponent that isn’t remotely great athletically. And it’s the athleticism, despite being two years older, that will see Jermall pick up the win.

Jermall Charlo to win via KO/TKO at odds of 2.50 (Sky Bet) looks very tempting. I’m also willing to put the Caleb Plant KO/TKO & Charlo KO/TKO selections together to form a double at odds of 4.17 on Sky Bet.