It was a regular day in Ronny Rios’ newfound life, working a regular job and trying to cope with whatever happened in the ring almost two years ago. Then, he comes across one old picture of him, in boxing gear and with a better fitness level. That was it for Rios, who decided to come back for a last hurrah and do something that he always wanted: clinch a world title.

The American fighter has the opportunity again, for the third time. Will this be it? But standing before him is Nick Ball. The exciting clash between a hardworking champion and a veteran challenger is scheduled for October 5, at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool. The fans will cherish the bout as the fight offers a stylistic match between a technically gifted fighter and a brawler. Before it happens, let’s have a look at how the two boxers stack up.

Nick Ball vs. Ronny Rios: Tale of Tape

Ball, 27, has thrown his name into the mix of the most exciting fighters in the current crop of champions. The British boxer is enjoying a tremendous year, where he fought a controversial draw with Rey Vargas first, which many believed he won, and then clinched the title against then-undefeated Raymond Ford. These two fights have solidified his reputation, and he now boasts of an impressive resume of 20-0-1 with 11 KOs. What has swayed the fans and pundits in his favor is his aggressive style, which is reflected in his KO ratio of 55%.

In addition, the comparisons some even draw comparisons with Mike Tyson, as Ball also brawls against taller opponents and tries to impose his will on his opponents. His height of 5’2″ (157 cm) may not be imposing, but his style surely is. Besides, the Liverpudlian has a long reach of 65.0″ (165 cm), which is the reason he has an exception jab. These attributes might put one on alert, but not Rios.

The American boxer has hung out with the best in his 16-year-long career. He has more experience and more fights under his belt. Therefore, Rios has honed his game to perfection, where he is the perfect blend of power and skills. The 34-year-old takes either the fight to distance or tries to stop it early after gauging his foe’s skills and acumen. It’s no wonder he has collected a splendid record of 34-4 with 17 KOs.

But what draws fans’ eyeballs is his 50% KO ratio, indicating his ability to churn out results. What’s more? The Santa Ana native carries the size advantage, as he stands tall at 5’7″ (171 cm) and also carries a longer reach of 67.0″ (170 cm). It will allow him to keep the champion at bay and the end of his punches, but will it be enough?

Prediction: Who wins it?

What separates Ball from the rest is his fan-friendly style and ability to cut the distance and fight inside. The WBA champion also throws powerful combinations after he has cut the distance. He continues to hammer his competitors with these blows until they give up. Hooks and uppercuts are his staple punches, that he uses to force his will.

Meanwhile, Rios tends to employ his jabs and work out the straights to the body. This style directly plays in Ball’s aggressive and inside fighting style. But it also can negate whatever Ball has to throw into the ring. Not to mention Rios’ experiences and his long resume of fighting top fighters. So, it remains an exciting matchup. However, Ball’s current form, his style advantage, and the fact that he’s fighting before his home crowd should be enough to tip the result in his favor.

What do you make of this coming fight between Nick Ball and Ronny Rios? Who do you think will leave the arena as victor? Let us know in the comments below.