Jack Catterall vs Jorge Linares fight breakdown
‘El Gato’ vs ‘Golden Child’
On October 21, 2023, at the Echo Arena in Liverpool, Jack ‘El Gato’ Catterall (27-1, 13KO) will face former three-weight world champion Jorge ‘The Golden Child’ Linares (47-8, 32KO) in a defence of his WBA Inter-Continental super-lightweight title, live on DAZN.
Chorley’s Catterall is 30-years-old; eight years Linares’ junior. The 38-year-old Venezuelan veteran turned pro over 20 years ago in December 2002, 10 years before Catterall. In fact, Catterall made his pro debut in September 2012 and two weeks later Linares had his 35th fight, already a world title contender by then.
The South American has fought in the UK three times before and is unbeaten on these shores, with wins over Kevin Mitchell and Anthony Crolla twice. So he travels well, but he hasn’t won in any of his last three fights.
The boxer from Barinas has a high guard, great feet, exceptional ring IQ and powerful left hook. His experience as a three-weight world champion is unrivalled and he is as comfortable inside the square ring as he is sitting down in his living room. It’s a second home to him.
Catterall has lost just once in 28 bouts, but many would dismiss that as a robbery against fierce rival, Josh Taylor. The southpaw is relaxed and sharp behind his jab and uses his feet effectively to get in and out of range. He keeps his lead right hand outstretched from his body where he can land his jabs accurately and to also measure the range, which he is so masterful at doing. He can put his punches together well and is great at varying his shots from body to head.
Despite only boasting 13 knockouts from 28 bouts, less than 50% KO ratio, he has knocked down his last three opponents, so his power is not to be underestimated.
This fight will see a young, ambitious prince attempt to topple a fallen king that is still mighty, majestic and a force to be reckoned with.
Betting Odds (Betway Sports)
Catterall is favourite to win at 1/9 and Linares is the underdog at 6/1. Odds for a draw are 25/1.
Prediction
Catterall is eight years younger and on his way up, whereas Linares is nearing 40, past his best, and not won a fight in over three years and eight months.
The former triple champion is still a classy operator, still competitive and eyecatching in fights, and his 55 bouts and 20-plus years will be invaluable experience against anyone, but this is Catterall’s fight to win or lose.
I believe ‘El Gato’ will win on points or late stoppage in rounds 10-12.