The boxing world is eagerly awaiting the ‘Day of Reckoning’card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 23.
The blockbuster fight night will feature some of the biggest names in the sport, including Deontay Wilder vs Joseph Park. But all eyes will be on the clash between Otto Wallin and Anthony Joshua.
While ‘AJ’ is no stranger to the grand stage, the Swede enters the bout as a formidable underdog with the potential to upset the Joshua vs Otto Wallin odds.
That said, here are five reasons why Wallin might emerge victorious in what is a pivotal matchup for both fighters.
Formidable form
One of the most compelling reasons behind Wallin’s potential success is his remarkable recent form since his defeat to Tyson Fury in Las Vegas in September 2019.
The Swedish southpaw has been on a tear over the last four years, stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak.
Victories over the likes of Travis Kauffman, Dominic Breazeale, and Murat Gassiev showcase Wallin’s ability to navigate through the heavyweight landscape with skill and tenacity.
Heading into the bout with Joshua on the back of such momentum could prove pivotal in dictating the pace of the fight.
Southpaw advantage
Wallin’s southpaw stance presents a challenge for Joshua, as we saw in his back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022.
The unorthodox angles and movements of a southpaw can disrupt the rhythm of even the most seasoned boxers.
If Wallin can effectively utilise his left-handed stance to create openings and avoid Joshua’s powerful right hand, it could be a key factor in tilting the odds in his favor.
Joshua’s recent vulnerability
That leads us nicely to our next point, as Joshua’s recent defeats to Usyk have exposed vulnerabilities in the former champion’s game.
Wallin, studying these fights meticulously and looking closely at how the Ukrainian’s southpaw stance could have given him an advantage over the Brit, may find a blueprint for success.
If he can exploit any lingering weaknesses or capitalise on the strategic errors that surfaced in Joshua’s losses, Wallin could turn adversity into opportunity and upset the boxing odds.
Stamina and work rate
Wallin’s stamina and work rate have been notable features in his recent victories, as his last five outings have gone the distance.
His ability to maintain a high level of activity throughout the rounds could pose challenges for Joshua, especially if Wallin can impose a relentless pace.
If Wallin can test Joshua’s endurance and resilience, the later rounds may become a battleground where the underdog has the chance to shine.
The element of surprise
Another significant advantage Wallin brings to the ring is an element of surprise.
While Joshua is undoubtedly the favourite, Wallin’s unique style and unpredictable movements could catch his opponent off guard.
If Wallin can maintain unpredictability and keep Joshua guessing, he may create openings for effective counterattacks and unexpected strategies.
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If Wallin can capitalise on his recent form, exploit tactical weaknesses, leverage his southpaw advantage, maintain a relentless work rate, and keep Joshua guessing, the Swedish fighter might script a stunning upset in Riyadh, etching his name in the annals of boxing history.
The ‘Day of Reckoning’ promises to be a spectacle where the unexpected can become reality, and Wallin stands poised to seize the moment.