Nick Ball Vs. Sam Goodman Preview

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 2:02 AM ET

Nick Ball puts his WBA featherweight title on the line against Sam Goodman on August 16, as we preview the upcoming bout.

Ball will make his third defense, having picked up the belt after beating Raymond Ford via a split decision on June 1, 2024. Two defenses followed with wins over Ronny Rios and TJ Doheny, respectively. Meanwhile, Goodman is undefeated with a 20-0 record. 8 of those wins are by way of knockout. He has had an impressive 2024-5, with wins over Mark Schleibs, Thachtana Luangphon and Cesar Vaca Espinoza, respectively.

Pre-Fight

“I definitely get nervous [before a fight], but it’s like I’m nervous to do well. You’re going out there in front of thousands of people, including your friends and family, so it’s normal to get nervous. But it’s about what you do with those nerves, and whether you let them take control of you. As fighters, and as people that can handle the pressure, we use those nerves to the best of our ability. Well, that’s what I do anyway. The key is to not panic when you get nervous,” Ball said

“I got into this sport to become a world champion, and this is best route to achieve it and that’s why I’m taking it on. It’s a massive opportunity and a lifelong dream for me to become a world champion and August 16, I get to achieve it. It’s up to me to do my job as best as possible. Every fight you’ve got to go in and try to be at your best. That’s where my full focus is trying to put myself in the best position to win this fight,” Goodman stated