Boxing
Johnny Fisher vs Michael Pirotton Predictions: Fisher fancied to win by stoppage
Johnny Fisher returns to action on Saturday night when he faces Michael Pirotton at the Copper Box Arena in London, with the market expecting another big performance from the popular heavyweight.
Fisher is priced at just 1/12 to win, with Pirotton 13/2 and the draw 16/1.
However, it is the method-of-victory market that really catches the eye, with Fisher just 2/7 to win by KO, TKO or disqualification.
Fisher’s KO price stands out
The 2/7 price for Fisher to win by KO, TKO or DQ is considerably shorter than his 7/2 quote to win by decision or technical decision.
That makes the expectation clear: if Fisher gets the job done, a stoppage is overwhelmingly viewed as the most likely route.
The Romford Bull comes into the contest with a 14-1 record, including 12 wins inside the distance, and has built much of his popularity around an aggressive style and heavy punching power. He also stopped Ivan Balaz in his last outing in December.
Fisher has spoken about embracing that aggressive approach again under new trainer Tony Sims, saying he wants to be himself in the ring rather than trying to change his natural style.
That makes the 2/7 stoppage price particularly notable.
Pirotton a big outsider
Belgian heavyweight Pirotton arrives as the 13/2 outsider, with his best route to victory priced at 10/1 by KO, TKO or DQ.
He is 25/1 to win by decision or technical decision, while the draw is 16/1.
Pirotton has insisted that he believes he can cause an upset in London, but Fisher’s power is the obvious factor he will have to deal with.
Interestingly, Pirotton has never been put down in his 14-fight career, so Fisher will be looking to become the first man to seriously test that durability.
Prize money and what’s next for Fisher
The financial picture around Fisher has changed considerably as his profile has grown. He reportedly signed a seven-figure deal with Zuffa Boxing earlier this year, a significant step up from the offer he had previously received from Matchroom.
A victory over Pirotton would also keep Fisher moving towards the bigger domestic and international fights he wants.
Richard Riakporhe, the current British heavyweight champion, has already indicated he would be open to giving Fisher a shot at his title if he comes through this weekend, highlighting the opportunities that could follow.
Prediction
The 1/12 match price leaves little doubt about the expected outcome, but it is the 2/7 Fisher by KO, TKO or DQ price that stands out most.
With 12 of Fisher’s 14 victories coming by stoppage and his aggressive style making an early finish a recurring feature of his fights, the market is strongly pointing towards another stoppage victory.
His other method prices are 7/2 by decision or technical decision, while Pirotton is 10/1 by KO/TKO/DQ and 25/1 by decision.
Prediction: Johnny Fisher to beat Michael Pirotton by KO, TKO or DQ at 2/7.
Prices accurate at time of writing – odds subject to change
