Xander Zayas vs. Jorge Garcia: Preview & Betting Tips

Zayas is technically sound, fast, and composed, rarely overcommitting when he throws shots, and you can tell that he was a standout amateur. If he was able to compete in the Olympics, he likely would’ve gone on to win a medal of some sorts. Instead, age restrictions denied him that chance, so he turned pro at the age of 19 instead.

Since then, we’ve seen the rise of a potential pound-for-pound star. While he’s not a one-punch knockout artist, he breaks opponents down with precision and volume, and a sniper-like jab. But, he’ll need to be laser-focused and defensively sharp across all 12 rounds on Saturday night; any lapse could see Garcia land something that changes the fight.

Jorge Garcia has stopped 26 of his 33 wins. And while he may lack elite footwork and isn’t the flashiest fighter, Garcia is consistent and keeps coming forward with his power. If he can drag Zayas into a brawl, this becomes a very interesting fight indeed.

Zayas vs Garcia: Prediction & Betting Tips

Garcia certainly has the power to keep Zayas honest, so the Puerto Rican must stay composed and avoid getting drawn into unnecessary exchanges. Especially early on in the fight.

I’d like to see Zayas snap that jab out with real spite in the first few rounds, just to make Garcia realise that he will be hit with power himself, if he comes forward with reckless abandonment. This has the potential to be a great fight to watch in my opinion.

I’m expecting a disciplined performance from the young Puerto Rican, who outboxes Garcia for the first half of the fight. Then, I envision the Mexican getting a little frustrated and start to chase Zayas around. 

This is where I think the 22-year-old can walk him onto something. I’m picking Xander Zayas to win in rounds 7-12 at odds of 6.50.