Th Ukrainian Kotelnik 29-2-1(13) makes the first defence of his WBA light welterweight title against Japanese Kimura 34-5-2(18) on home soil tonight (Saturday 13 September).
Kotelnik is a competent boxer, and wrested the belt from previously unbeaten Welshmen Gavin Rees in the latter’s home country back in March. He will not be in the mood to relinquish his belt in front of his home fans.
Kimura is unbeaten since 2002, although has only fought domestic (though decent) competition in recent times. Nevertheless, he has a decent #15 ranking with boxrec (Kotelnik is #7) but will surely have to show something a bit special in order to take the title in front of a patriotic Ukrainian crowd.
It’s no surprise to see Kotelnik at 1/7 outright, although it’s not worth a bet at that price given Kimura’s unbeaten streak. Better to go with the 2/7 on offer for the overs. Neither Kotelnik or Kimura has ever been knocked out, and neither is a huge puncher to boot.
Recommendation:
Over 9.5 rounds: 2/7 with Bet365 2.5pts
Posted by boxingbets 
