Nicholas Walters vs. Miguel Marriaga
Brandon Glass, Contributing Writer
The Axe Man Nicholas Walters is on fire right now and looking to chop down any challenger who threatens his title. Marriaga is no slouch on paper, winning all but two of his 20 professional fights by knockout. Marriaga seems to have a punch that should cause concern, threatening Walters rise to stardom.
Ultimately, Walters has the edge in experience, facing notable world class competition like Donaire and a slowing Darchinyan. He’s going to need it to ensure that the top prospect doesn’t get lucky.
Walters has been hurt and even dropped in his fight with Donaire, which may give Mariagga a little confidence in his chances to upset the apple cart.
I expect Walters’ edge in skill, experience, and his resilience to aide him in a possibly exciting fight as both guys are punchers. Hopefully we get a unification bout between Walters and Lomachenko as a result.
Prediction: Walters
Tony Calcara, Staff Writer
This could be fun as both fighters are undefeated and they can both punch.
Miguel Marriaga defeated Nicholas Walters as amateurs and although this can go either way, I will put my stock in Walters to get revenge and end it before the final bell.
Prediction: Walters
Michael Burnell, Staff Writer
With a combined record of 45-0, 39 KOs, this is almost a can’t miss thriller that won’t go 12.
I think that will be the case and Nicholas Walters will put Miguel Marriaga away in seven. Walters is riding a big wave of momentum and will be on an absolute mission to close the show impressively again to retain his title.
His resume is far more solid, but can’t afford to get careless. This one will be fun!
Prediction: Walters
Alex McLeish, Staff Writer
An interesting matchup between two big punchers. The question is will Miguel Marriaga be able to do to Nicholas Walters what he’s done to a bunch of scrubs over his career?
I think not. Walters will circle away from Marriaga’s best punch, the left hook, and destroy him with stiff jabs and hard right hands. Looks like another quick outing for the “Axe Man.”
Prediction: Walters
Porfirio Barron Jr., Photographer
Prediction: Walters
Alex Burgos, Editor-in-Chief
Nicholas Walters has one of the most wicked jabs in the game. I expect him to use it early and often against Miguel Marriaga. Marriaga does hold an amateur victory over Walters, but that shouldn’t matter much here.
Nonito Donaire was able to seriously buzz Walters, so there is always the chance that Marriaga can land a big blow and swing things in his favor, but ultimately I think Walters sets up his right-hand axe with a mean jab and stops a game Marriaga.
Prediction: Walters
