Besides boasting high-action-packed fights and big superstars, the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol bill also offers fans an exciting and distinct flavor. The event has title fights and sets the bigger stage for fighters to chart their own path and forge their destiny. However, the undercard also will mark the commencement of a professional journey, which has immense potential. More than some stars on the list, the fans will cheer for Mohammed Alakel as he makes his debut against Jesus Gonzalez before his home crowd. But will he give his people a reason to start the night’s festivities early?
That’s something the fans will find out as they witness the action unfold on the Beterbiev vs. Bivol undercard on October 12 at the Kingdom Arena. The encounter will double up as the night opener and will surely give fans a sneak peek into what they can expect out of the much-awaited card. But before that happens, let’s have a look at how the two boxers stack up.
Mohammed Alakel and Jesus Gonzale: Tale of Tape
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Interestingly, there is not much information about Alakel, except the fact that he has trainer Joe Gallagher in his corner. The British trainer has helped hone his skills, and you can expect Alakel to come out strong. What’s more? Gallagher’s social media handle has Alakel in the spotlight lately, partly because of his coming debut and partly because of his talent. The fans have seen him train him with the likes of Natasha Jones and Jack Massey. Therefore, fans are expecting him to have the experience of hanging out with the best, even though he has yet to make his pro debut.
World Champion @TashaJonas training awaiting fight date @boxxer @SkySportsBoxing alongside European & Commonwealth Champ @jackmasseyboxer ahead of his huge World title fight in Riyadh , on undercard of that show Mo will be making his professional debut . 🥊🇸🇦👑 pic.twitter.com/a3feJ0lxq4
— Joe Gallagher (@JoeG) September 9, 2024
Gonzalez, 21, undoubtedly is the more experienced of the two, having made his debut back last year. But it’s a fight that he would like to forget about, as he fought a closely contested bout and yet lost the fight on the judges’ scorecard. It didn’t take him long to learn his lesson, as he racked up a consecutive 3-win streak. Notably, all of those came via decision, suggesting his technical prowess. The Sincelejo native’s 0% KO ratio might not be eye-popping but gets the job done.
But it didn’t last long, as Gonzalez dropped his last fight to Ibraheem Sulaimaan. He took a huge body shot to his right, as he seemed in agony and never quite recovered from that. Hence, pressure is on the Columbian boxer to return to the winner’s column. That too in an alien territory. Will he be able to do it?
What’s your perspective on:
Will Mohammed Alakel's reach advantage be the deciding factor against Jesus Gonzalez's knockout power?
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Prediction: who wins it?
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It’s a 4-round lightweight division affair, so the action will be quick and the fighters have to capitalize on the openings with the four rounds. While Gonzalez has the experience, he is coming off a brutal loss, which might have affected his confidence. That’s not it. He takes time to settle down, which might impact his game plan. He might also have to adopt a fan-friendly, coming-forward style that he is not comfortable with.
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Whereas, Alakel is like a wild card for Gonzalez, who is ready to explode on his pro debut. He has the support of the crowd and if he soaks in the pressure well, he could commence his career with a bang. We have him winning. But the mode of it will be determined by Alakel, his confidence levels, and how early his opponent figures him out.
What do you make of this coming fight between Mohammed Alakel and Jesus Gonzalez? Who do you think will leave the arena as victor? Let us know in the comments below.
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Debate
Will Mohammed Alakel's reach advantage be the deciding factor against Jesus Gonzalez's knockout power?