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SUNNY EDWARDS VS GALAL YAFAI: THE NEXT CHAPTER

This weekend marks the first installment of what could potentially become one of the greatest domestic rivalries in British boxing history as former world champion Sunny Edwards faces Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Galal Yafai in Birmingham.

Before the main event, the undercard boasts no fewer than nine fights, making it a stacked lineup. Let’s delve into the fights and fighters to watch.

Fights to Watch

The standout undercard fight is undoubtedly Cameron Vuong vs. Gavin Gwynne.

In just his seventh professional contest, the 22-year-old Vuong takes a significant step up against former British, Commonwealth, and European champion Gwynne. The clash promises a fascinating mix of styles.

Gwynne is known as one of the toughest, most durable, and relentless fighters in British boxing. His three career losses have come against elite-level opponents. Despite suffering a stoppage defeat to Mark Chamberlain in his last outing, he remains a stern test for any prospect, especially someone as promising as Vuong.

Trained by Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis, Vuong has made it clear he doesn’t want to be held back in his career. His team has delivered, lining up victories against names like Jeff Ofori, Joe Underwood Hughes, and Ishmael Ellis. However, Gwynne is undoubtedly his toughest challenge yet.

To succeed, Gwynne will likely push the pace early, aiming to exhaust Vuong and dominate the later rounds. Meanwhile, Vuong will look to use his superior boxing IQ, quick footwork, and hand speed to outmaneuver Gwynne. A stoppage win could propel Vuong toward an English title fight, should he pursue that traditional route.

Another eye-catching bout is Conah Walker vs. Lewis Ritson.

Walker, fresh from a narrow points defeat to Lewis Crocker, has been a revelation since upsetting Cyrus Pattinson last year. Known for his aggressive, fan-friendly style, he faces the experienced Ritson, a former British lightweight champion.

Ritson burst onto the scene in 2017 with a stunning stoppage of Robbie Barrett but has struggled to fulfill his early potential. Coming off back-to-back losses to Ohara Davies and Paddy Donovan, this fight represents his last chance to reignite his career. Walker, with his fresher legs and relentless style, may prove too much for the Geordie veteran.

Fighters to Watch

The returning Callum Smith, a former world champion, is one of the key names on the card. After nearly 11 months away following a stoppage loss to Artur Beterbiev, Smith remains well-positioned in the WBC and IBF rankings. A strong performance on Saturday could set him up for another marquee fight in 2025.

Another exciting prospect is Hamza Uddin. Known for his flamboyant style in and out of the ring, Uddin has drawn high praise from Eddie Hearn and Sam Jones. His clash with Benn Norman provides another opportunity to continue his rapid ascent.

Finally, keep an eye on Taylor Bevan, the Commonwealth silver medalist making his professional debut. With an energetic, crowd-pleasing style, he’ll aim to make a statement under the bright DAZN lights.

Sunny Edwards vs. Galal Yafai - WBC ‘Interim’ World Flyweight Title

The main event is a clash of styles and pedigrees. Former IBF world champion Sunny Edwards takes on his former amateur foe, Olympic gold medalist Galal Yafai.

The rivalry dates back to April 25, 2015, when Edwards narrowly edged out Yafai via split decision in the ABA semi-finals. That victory marked the start of diverging careers: Edwards turned professional shortly after, while Yafai stayed in the amateur ranks, culminating in his Tokyo triumph.

Edwards is known for his slick, counter-punching style, while Yafai’s high-pressure, all-action approach contrasts sharply. Their amateur encounter offers hints of how this bout may unfold, with Edwards likely to potshot and frustrate while Yafai seeks to impose himself with aggression.

Regardless of Saturday’s outcome, this fight is unlikely to be the last meeting between these two exceptionally talented fighters.