When the two were separated at the end of the 12th round, both stood tall and claimed that they had done enough to get their hand raised. However, it was Robson Conceicao who had edged out O’Shaquie Foster and snatched his WBC super featherweight title in July. But it wasn’t without controversy. Fans, promoters, and pros demanded an immediate rematch and they had their wish granted.

Conceicao and Foster will once again fight it out for the gold when they stand across from each other on November 2 at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona. While Conceicao will try to prove that he was the rightful victor, Foster will attempt to seize what he believes was wrongfully taken win from him. So, it’s a highly anticipated rematch, which has an intriguing storyline and deep implications. Before the action unfolds, let’s have a look at how the two fighters stack up.

Robson Conceicao vs. O’Shaquie Foster: Tale of Tape

Conceicao, 35, made waves when he turned professional in 2016 after becoming an Olympic gold medalist. His aggressive fighting style, where he likes to take the initiative, soon made him a household name. It also helped him rise rapidly in the ranks and it wasn’t long before he was challenging for the titles. The Brazilian fighter boasts of an impressive record of 19-2 with 9 KOs, with his two narrow losses coming against Oscar Valdez and Shakur Stevenson in championship fights with an asterisk.

What’s more? Conceicao focuses on his technical skills and footwork and tries to break down his opponents over 12 rounds. His KO ratio of 47.37% also suggests the same. In addition, the Salvador native carries the size advantage, as he stands tall at 5’10” (179 cm) and has a reach of 70″ (178 cm), allowing him to create angles. But will these dimensions prove enough against a recognizable foe?

Foster, 31, is the younger of the two but has more fights under his belt. But his career had some initial hiccups, which he ironed out, and had a stellar transformation under Bobby Benton. A 12-fight win streak then ensured he collected the WBC title en route. What helped him rack up such an incredible streak were his heavy-handed punches, his ring generalship, and his overall technical prowess. But a loss to Conceicao dropped the American fighter to 22-3 with 12 KOs.

Foster carries the edge in punching power, as he has a KO ratio of 54.55%. But the former world champion cedes away the ground in size, as his height measures 5’8″ (174 cm). Interestingly, he carries a two-inch reach advantage with his long levers at 72″ (183 cm). Will that help him reach to the champion’s body sooner and unload his punches? Will it be enough for him this time?

Prediction: Who wins it?

What happened in the first fight was that Conceicao failed to land effectively against Foster. But the latter himself failed to connect and mount an offensive due to Conceicao’s elusive and fluid style. ‘Nino’ has a set and successful approach. Use his height and fan-friendly style to do a number on his foes, and then remain out of their hitting arc, relying on his quick footwork, ring generalship, and then launch an effective counterattack. This has worked wonders for him and might do the same when he faces Foster.

However, Foster has the boxing IQ and mental fortitude to adapt according to different fighters, their styles, and various circumstances. You add into the mix his penchant for body punching and varied toolkit of punches and you have a deadly fighter. The Orange native exhibited the same in his last fight with Conceicao. But he failed to remain active. That’s one aspect of the fight that he would like to change. Whereas, Conceicao will look to land more clean shots and not overemphasize his activity and coming forward style to strike a balance to secure the judges’ scorecard.

You can expect a more engaging and exciting fight in this rematch. But given that many had Foster winning the last fight, along with his adaptive qualities and if he appears to be more busy, then he could take back his title. It remains a close fight to call and you shouldn’t be surprised if Conceicao manages to hold on to the title.

What do you make of this coming fight between Robson Conceicao and O’Shaquie Foster? Who will leave the arena as a victor? Let us know in the comments below.