Jake Paul vs Nate Diaz is easily one of the most anticipated boxing matches this year. Whilst a lot of people are excited to see the two go head to head, the fight card includes other big names as well. As such, let’s take a look at one of the fights on the main card- Chris Avila vs Jeremy Stephens.
Since its announcement, a lot was made of the Jake Paul-Nate Diaz fight. With a contract seemingly agreed, it appeared as though the fight would finally materialize. However, in order to get some more hype around the fight, some more known names were thrown in. As such, a number of high-profile fights were further added to the card to make things even more interesting.
Chris Avila is back! Taking on yet another big challenge – this time against the man who has the second most knockdowns in UFC history, Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens. 8 rounds, 168 lbs.
Chris Avila has been been featured on two previous MVP events and in his last bout he… pic.twitter.com/fwKAmPOjW8
— Most Valuable Promotions (@MostVpromotions) June 21, 2023
Thus, in the co-main event, Amanda Serrano will run it back against Heather Hardy. Moreover, in the featured bout we have former MMA fighters, Chris Avila and Jeremy Stephens. For the most part, Avila had a rather difficult spell in the UFC and other MMA Promotions. However, he began turning things around after taking up boxing in late 2021.
As for Stephens, an MMA veteran, he has seemingly found a new home in boxing. After six straight losses in the UFC, Stephens parted ways with the UFC in 2021. Following that Stephens also had a brief run in the PFL, winning once and losing twice. Now, as he makes his switch to boxing he is faced with a solid contender in Avila.
Chris Avila vs Jeremy Stephens stats
Stats | Chris Avila (30) | Jeremy Stephens (37) |
---|---|---|
Wins | 3 | 0 |
Losses | 0 | 0 |
Height | 5 ft 10 in | 5 ft 9 in |
Division | Super Middleweight | Super Middleweight |
Reach | 72.5 in | 71 in |
Weight | 168 lbs | 168 lbs |
Avila vs Stephens breakdown and fight prediction
Coming into this one, the matchup heavily favors Chris Avila. Having boxed for longer than Stephens gives him a clear advantage. During his boxing stint, Avila has triumphed over the durable Anthony Taylor, Mike Varshavski, and most recently, Paul Bamba. Although neither of those three possesses the experience of Jeremy Stephens, Avila was largely impressive during his outings.
Without a doubt, Avila, being the younger boxer, is not only faster but also technically superior to Stephens in this sport. Add to that his Stockton roots, which seemingly imbues fighters with crazy durability, it is looking like a tall order for ‘Lil Heathen’. For starters, Stephen’s boxing prowess isn’t yet up to par with Avila’s. Although a majority draw against Jose Aldo may seem impressive, the result may be a little deceiving.
To no one’s surprise, Stephens can still throw (hardest-hitting 145er after all) even as he approaches 40. Some could even argue, Stephens might have more power in his hands out of the two. Unfortunately, he also has a bad habit of defending with his face. Despite having only decision wins, Avila can throw and cause some serious damage. Thus, if Jeremy does not make considerable improvements from the Aldo fight, he could be walking in an ambulance.
Naturally, there is always a chance for an early shot to connect for Stephens. However, the 37-year-old’s chances will significantly decrease as the fight goes on. With a six-rounder knocking the wind out of his sails previously, it is hard to imagine a heavier Stephens doing better in an eight-rounder. Although it will be a very entertaining fight, there is little doubt as to how it will end.