John O'Donnell vs. Tom Glover Preview
Commonwealth Title On The Line On September 5th
Tom Glover and John O'Donnell are both linked by one thing: both have a hard route to the top. While Tom Glover has no choice in this matter, John O'Donnell makes life difficult for himself in the way he fights.
John O'Donnell Champion
In April of this year, John O'Donnell wrestled the belt away from rough and ready Mancunian Craig Watson. The fight went twelve rounds and ended in a split decision, and arguably if the fight was in Manchester, it could have easily gone the other way. However, O'Donnell didn't need to leave an element of doubt.
O'Donnell is very skilled, and while Craig Watson is a good boxer, with his reach and speed, O'Donnell should have pulled out the victory with more ease. Another example of O'Donnell making life harder for himself is his fight against Stuart Elwell in 2007, when he laboured to a ten round points decision.
The lowest point in his career was easily when he was knocked out by Christian Solano in 2007. Then a hot prospect, he rushed in against an experienced journeyman in Las Vegas, and got caught.
However, he has shown his capabilities against opponents such as Jay Morris and Suleyman Dag, so it isn't inconcievable that he can turn on the style which he most definitely possesses.
Tom Glover Perennial Underdog
It's hard not to be a fan of Maldon's affable bricklayer Tom Glover. Despite not being particularly gifted in any area, he always gives it his best shot, and he has recorded some excellent wins over unprepared opponents recently.
Jon Thaxton is his most recent victim. Thaxton moved up in weight to take a 'ticking over' bout, and he was made to pay by Glover who showed up in better shape, and mauled out a narrow decision victory.
The skilled, but inconsistent Nadeem Siddique is another fighter to succumb to Glover. Siddique is a good fighter, and really shouldn't have lost, so why do good quality fighters lose to the Maldon man?
It is fairly simple. Everyone underestimates Glover, as he looks fairly unimpressive. However, he is better than he looks, and the twelve round distance should really suit him. O'Donnell would be silly to make this mistake, and should be looking to impress on the big stage.
Who Will Win Glover vs. O'Donnell?
Tom Glover deserves a lot of credit for what he's done in boxing so far, but this is probably a bridge too far for the fan favourite. John O'Donnell should be in great shape, and is so classy at this level that he would really have to be out of shape for Glover to beat him. Glover will probably take him the distance though, and this should be a good fight.
How To Watch O'Donnell vs. Glover
This fight can be watched at 7.35pm GMT on ITV 4 on Saturday 5th September. This is also availiable on Super Channel Fights in Canada.
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