ESPN Fight Preview

Oscar Valdez vs. Scott Quigg

In a weekend full of good fights one of the most intriguing will come on March 10 when Oscar Valdez (23-0, 19 KO) takes on Scott Quigg (34-1-2, 25 KO).  Valdez is one of the most exciting young fighters in the sport but he will have a seriously tough test against the U.K. born Quigg.  Valdez will be making the fourth defense of his WBO featherweight title.

Valdez landing a mean left hook

Valdez is an orthodox fighter who draws fans in with his aggressive style.  Along with a crisp jab Valdez has shown a heavy, if sloppy at times, right hand and a mean left hook.  At just 27 years old Valdez already has some quality names on his resume and beating Quigg would just raise his profile even higher.

Born in Mexico, Valdez epitomizes the Mexican style of boxing.  He loves to trade heavy leather and loves to come forward.  He could improve defensively but often opponents are hesitant to take chances because of his explosive offensive capabilities.  Even with names like Miguel Marriaga and Evgeny Gradovich already on his resume a win over Quigg would be the best of his career.

Quigg throwing a jab at his opponent's guard

The biggest fight of Quigg's career thus far came in 2016 when he lost a close split decision to Carl Frampton.  Quigg suffered a broken jaw in that fight but recovered well and has gone 3-0 with two knockout since the loss.  One big advantage Quigg will have in this fight is his size.

Quigg is nearly three inches taller than Valdez and he's also a good mix of boxing skills and punching power.  Quigg works behind a quality jab and loves to throw his heavy right hand but he will need to be careful not to get into a firefight with Valdez.

This should be a tough bout for both fighters.  Valdez has the power advantage but he will be the smaller of the two pugilists and Quigg is arguably the more skilled fighter.  Valdez will probably try to start fast and stay aggressive while Quigg will most likely look to box the less experienced Valdez and win on the cards.

PREDICTION: Oscar Valdez's last two fights have gone the distance and this one will too.  Scott Quigg has never been knocked out and his size will give Valdez trouble.  If he isn't careful Valdez will lose this fight but with the help of his power he will come away with the split decision win.