
The IBF junior welterweight title is on the line on Saturday night in New York
One unexpected victory can significantly alter a fighter’s career path. This lesson exemplifies George Kambosos Jr., who continues to reap the rewards from his upset triumph over Teofimo Lopez in 2021, leading to a showdown against current champion Richardson Hitchins this Saturday. Kambosos (22-3, 10 KO) was an underdog against Lopez yet managed to secure a clear victory, winning the WBA, WBO, and IBF titles at 135 pounds.
Kambosos leveraged that success into a chance at an undisputed championship against Devin Haney in a two-fight series in 2022, but was decisively outmatched on both occasions. Following a series of setbacks, Kambosos bounced back with a win over Jake Wyllie in March, setting the stage for this title fight with Hitchins.
Hitchins vs. Kambosos Fight Card and Betting Odds
- Richardson Hitchins (c) -1200 vs. George Kambosos Jr. +700, IBF junior welterweight title
- Andy Cruz -1800 vs. Hironori Mishiro +850, lightweights
- Pablo Valdez -4000 vs. Cesar Diaz +1400, welterweights
- Teremoana Teremoana -8000 vs. Aleem Whitfield +1700, heavyweights
- Nishant Dev -8000 vs. Josue Silva +1700, junior middleweights
Where to Watch Hitchins vs. Kambosos
- Date: June 14
- Location: Theater at Madison Square Garden – New York
- Start time: 8 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: DAZN (subscription required)
Prediction
Both Hitchins and Kambosos lack knockout power likely to end the fight swiftly, leading to a tactical showdown. Hitchins, recognized for his boxing skills, faces Kambosos, who is determined and resilient in the ring. However, Kambosos often struggles against more technically proficient opponents, and Hitchins seems to hold the upper hand going into this bout. Expect Hitchins to prevail by unanimous decision.