A rarity will occur in women’s boxing this weekend. Two fighters, evenly matched, will step into the ring and go toe-to-toe for 10 rounds. In an era where the best fighters avoid tarnishing their records by fighting each other, the IBF Welterweight World Title fight between Natasha Jonas and Mikaela Mayer is a rare treat for fans.
Both women come into this clash with confidence on their side, having won several fights recently. It’s Jonas who holds the belt with the 14-2-1 professional having won it with a knockout of Kandi Wyatt in July last year. Can the 39-year-old continue her journey towards unifying the welterweight belts? Or will Mayer rain on her parade and embark on her own mission?
We break down the latest odds from bookmaker William Hill ahead of this title fight and outline the best bets to make on Jonas vs. Mayer this weekend.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: January 19th, 5:30 A.M. (GMT)
Outright betting odds from bookmaker William Hill show just how close this clash is expected to be. Belt holder Natasha Jonas is the slight favourite at 1.80, but barely with Mikaela Mayer just behind on 2.00.
The method of victory odds also do little to separate these two. Jonas winning by decision leads at 1.91, with a Mayer decision paying 2.75. Knockouts are priced highly, with Mayer the more likely to end this one early at 7.50 and Jonas behind on 9.00. Can’t decide between the two? Then a draw returns 17.00.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: January 19th, 5:30 A.M. (GMT)
In a fight this close, we say the outcome will come down to a couple of factors. First, Jonas has experience negating what many view as Mayer’s main advantage—her height and reach. The Brit has shared the ring with bigger boxers before and knows how to engage a woman when she concedes a size advantage.
Second, Jonas is excellent at counter punching with speed to reduce the impact of Mayer’s forward pressure. The American thrives when she can get on the front foot and put her opponents under pressure, but Jonas’ speed and ring IQ will take this approach out of her hands.
Finally, the reason why we suggest backing Jonas for an outright win at 1.80 is the crowd. This will be a dogfight, there’s no two ways about it. In the latter rounds, having a raucous home crowd cheering her on will do the 39-year-old a world of good and could well be what gets her across the finish line in this tight exchange.
