BBN ask key boxing figures for their Cristofer Rosales vs Charlie Edwards predictions
Croydon's Charlie Edwards (13-1), 25, will challenge WBC World flyweight Champion Cristofer Rosales (28-3), 24 from Nicaragua, on the undercard of Dillian Whyte vs. Derek Chisora 2 at The O2 in London on December 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
Edwards has already challenged for a World title when he met John Riel Casimero for the IBF flyweight crown, tasting defeat for the first and only time in his career, the Filipino stopping him in round-10. The 25-year-old has since bounced back with five straight wins, claiming two titles in the process – British and WBA Continental at super-flyweight.
Now he gets his second crack at a World title against powerful Central American Rosales, who stopped Daigo Higa to claim the vacant WBC World title in Japan before destroying hometown hero Paddy Barnes in four-rounds at Windsor Park in August.
BBN asked their panel of experts if they think Edwards will get it right on his second take or if Rosales will silence the raucous O2 crowd.
Danny 'Cassius' Connor
Former Southern Area champion
"Rosales, whilst a big puncher, always seems to struggle with elusive type boxers. Paddy Barnes isn't great on his feet but he was winning the fight with Rosales, for me.
I pick Edwards' speed of hand and quick feet to be too much and for Charlie to win on points or even a mid to late-rounds stoppage."
Bradley Saunders
Former Olympian & WBO Inter-Continental champion
"Charlie Edwards will know what to expect this time and I'm sure he can win if he sticks to the gameplan."
Kofi Donker
Unbeaten lightweight signed to Goodwin Boxing
"I remember watching that first World title fight at The O2 with Charlie Edwards when he lost to Casimero.
I know Charlie from Repton Boxing Club in the amateurs. I don't really know enough about Rosales to predict it too well, but Edwards has proven himself at British and International level already, so it's hard to tell when he goes back up to World level again. He's experienced that level once before so could be better prepared this time on his second attempt.
I don't think I can call it, but I do wish Charlie all the best."
Craig Richards
British title contender
"I don't know a lot about his opponent, only that he stopped Paddy Barnes and sounds like he's tough.
It should be a good fight, but I'm edging Charlie to win."
Robbie Davies Jr
British lightweight champion
"I think Rosales is an improved fighter the last few times I've seen him; he's big, strong and a very good fighter up close. I believe the better boxing, movement and better footwork will come from Charlie and will see him take it on points."
Chez Nihell
Cruiserweight debutant
"I have to back our Brit. I'm a believer that if you keep knocking on the door, it will eventually open. Charlie Edwards has fought and lost for a World title before and I believe he will have more focus and extra fire in his belly this time around. That, with his quick hands and feet, I predict it will go the distance with Edwards lifting the title."
Tim Rickson
Sports Agent and BBN Editor
"I do genuinely believe that Charlie Edwards gets it right on take two.
I have always rated Charlie; his movement is exceptional, has a sharp jab and great left hook. He took some big shots from Casimero in his first World title fight and was probably a step up too quick at the time, aged only 23, but also a good learning curve for him. He has rebuilt with five straight wins and he's now two years older and wiser, and comes into the fight as a two-weight British titlist.
He'll know what to expect now at World level and I think he'll be more prepared for the step up second time around."
Betting Odds
Charlie Edwards to win: 11/8 Ladbrokes
Cristofer Rosales to win: 1/2 Bet365
Charlie Edwards KO: 8/13 Ladbrokes
Cristofer Rosales KO: 6/4 Bet365
Draw: 20/1 Marathon Bet