Iglesias vs. Shishkin: Unsigned Hype 

To use a term from the legendary hip hop magazine The Source, rising prospect Osleys Iglesias is a perfect example of unsigned hype. Although Iglesias has fought on cards promoted by Bob Arum’s Top Rank or even a co-promotion by Lou Dibella, none of the top promoters in the sport have put pen to paper. For the record Iglesias is signed to Eye of the Tiger Managment. The southpaw boxer from the storied amateur program in Cuba is stepping to the plate in his biggest test to date. Standing in the way on his climb in the super middleweight division is veteran boxer Vladimir Shishkin. As of now this main event hasn’t found a home in America so here’s hoping by Thursday night, we can watch it legally live.

The most recognizable name on the Cuban native’s resume through 13 bouts is Isaac Chilemba. Fighting out of Canada for the last 4 fights, Oslyes has made quick work of his opponents. It only took a total of 9 rounds to score four knockouts bringing his record to 13-0 with 12 stoppages. KO victim Evgeny Shvedenko managed to win a few rounds off William Scull. Scull happens to be the man who gave Vladimir Shishkin his only loss as a professional. It should be noted the fight between Scull and Shishkin was very competitive.

Scull would go on to stink the joint up in a horrendous display losing to Canelo Alvarez. Shishkin previously ranked high in the IBF had other opportunities to fight the likes of David Morrell, but he bought his time waiting for a shot at the IBF. For the record, Vladimir landed more punches on Scull than Canelo did. Shishkin went 10 full rounds in a clear victory over Sena Agbeko whereas Iglesias stopped the same fighter in the opening frame. Enough of the triangle theories, lets break down this fight.

Neither boxer is all that great on the defensive end so look for this matchup to be fairly entertaining. Both men have solid jabs and can punch in combination. Shishkin prefers to fight at range, but he will eventually have to bring pressure. Iglesias has decent hand speed and even better timing, also is comfortable not tense in the ring. One could claim too comfortable at times. Oslyes wide stance and overall footwork can get him in trouble. Hence the pressure this boxing podcaster believes Shishkin should apply. Backing up Iglesias getting him out of his comfort zone is a must.

Iglesias needs to take his time using the jab and targeting the body instead of head hunting and relying on his power too much. Clubbing hooks and what appears to be an improving upper cut is another weapon at Iglesias’s disposal. All and all Shishkin is exactly what the doctor ordered to find out just how bright of future Osleys has at 168. If you think Iglesias is too green Shishkin is anywhere from +540 to +600 outright win or +1000 by decision. This boxing junkie sides with Iglesias to win but something tells me it will go rounds and possibly the distance. Haven’t committed to +295 Iglesias by decision just yet but it’s tempting.

My Official Prediction is Osleys Iglesias by late stoppage.

PODCAST LINK: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rope-a-dope-radio-podcast/id1794655742?i=1000724830656

Side Note: In other action this weekend Michael Conlan vs. Jack Bateson and Mark Dickinson vs. Troy Williamson should be interesting. Also, a 50-50 fight between Pedro Guevara and Adrian Curiel is the co-feature to Eduardo Nunez vs. Christopher Velez.

Written by Chris Carlson Host/Producer of The Rope A Dope Radio Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker, I-Heart Radio, Amazon Podcasts, Google Podcasts & More! Follow on Twitter @RopeADopeRadio