Unified 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo will attempt to make boxing history when he defends his WBC, WBA and IBF Super Welterweight World Titles against undefeated WBO World Champion Brian Castano in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Charlo is 20/57 favourite to be crowned undisputed champion but he’s bound to be tested by the dangerous Castano, who is 2/1 to win in Texas in what should be an exciting showdown.
Charlo Record Stands up to Scrutiny
American Charlo has only one loss on his record from 35 professional bouts and he has since avenged that December 2018 defeat to fellow countryman Tony Harrison, winning their rematch in California a year later.
The fight at the AT&T Centre in San Antonio this weekend represents a great chance for Charlo to become the first undisputed super welterweight champion since 2004, and whoever comes out on top will be crowned the division’s first undisputed champion in the four-belt era.
On top of that – as if either fighter needed any more incentive – the winner would also be one of just two active undisputed champions on the globe, joining Scottish star Josh Taylor, who is currently the undisputed light-welterweight champion.
Versatile Champ can Edge it
Charlo’s pedigree and form gives him the edge and his most recent victory, over Dominican star Jeison Rosario last September, demonstrated his punching prowess as he downed his opponent in the eighth round. That was the 31-year-old’s 18th victory by knockout and proves just how destructive he can be when in the mood.
His ability to go the distance when required is also well recognised, however, as 16 of his wins have come via a decision. Castano, therefore, must be wary of his opponent’s versatility and ability to get the job done regardless.
The 8/1 on offer for Charlo to win in rounds 10-12 will tempt some, but the wiser money may well be on the favourite to come out on top by Decision or Technical Decision again, available at 5/4. These two are the same age and look fairly evenly-matched but Charlo should edge it, owing to his greater experience and the fact he is the bigger of the two men, standing a full four inches taller.
Undefeated Castano is Dangerous
Castano cannot be discounted completely and his undefeated record should ensure Charlo brings his A game to the ring. The Argentinian has won 17 of his 18 bouts with the only blemish being a draw against Erislandy Lara in March 2019.
He’s since responded with a victory over veteran Wale Omotoso, when the Nigerian was forced to retire hurt in the fifth round with Castano dominant, while he got past the dangerous Brazilian Patrick Teixeira via unanimous decision in February.
This is a step-up, though, and it’s difficult envisaging Castano being able to cope with Charlo over the full course of the contest, even if he will likely give a good account of himself.
*All odds correct at time of writing.