Natasha Jonas has been written off ahead of her world title clash with Terri Harper on Friday night, but the Liverpudlian will be hoping to use her vast experience when the pair meet at Fight Camp.
Promoter Eddie Hearn continues to host fights from the gardens of Matchroom headquarters, and Friday’s battle will be the first time two British women have ever contested a world title.
Can Harper Handle the Expectations?
The Yorkshire fighter has enjoyed a whirlwind few years after making her debut in 2017.
Harper has gone from small-hall shows to headlining British cards, and that is thanks to ten straight victories under trainer Stefy Bull.
The 23-year-old has won her last two fights via points decision, but she has stopped five of her ten opponents inside the scheduled distance.
However, the unbeaten fighter has never been under this much pressure, nor has the spotlight shone brighter.
Big things could be on the horizon for Harper if she can overcome Jonas, and she remains the heavy favourite. Odds of 1/15 for the straight win are a touch prohibitive but a Harper victory via knockout is a much more attractive bet at 2/3.
Last Chance Saloon for Jonas
Jonas has been under the spotlight for the best part of eight years, with her amateur pedigree not going unnoticed.
The 36-year-old first burst onto the scene at the 2012 London Olympics, but she represented Great Britain at a whole host of other events.
Jonas is desperate to end her professional career as a world champion, and after a loss to Viviane Obenauf two years ago, she believes there is still more in the tank.
Three wins in succession have given her this chance against Harper, and she has claimed that her recent training camp was the best of her career.
All good fighters do say that, while hiding cuts and bruises, but Jonas is adamant she could not have prepared any better.
Harper is known for her engine and Jonas has vowed to stay until the final bell, but her best chance may come early on.
Early Win Best Chance for Underdog
In her nine professional fights, Jonas has stopped seven of her rivals inside the distance, and she is 12/1 to win via stoppage.
Jonas’ trainer, Joe Gallagher, has done his best with mind games throughout the build-up and Harper has looked agitated at times.
There’s no doubt she is talented and could have a successful career, but at her current price, Harper can be taken on. Jonas knows this is her last chance to win world honours and she will be dangerous for the duration of Friday’s historic battle.
