Tavoris Cloud is undoubtedly a hot prospect. He is undefeated and 18 of his 19 victories have come by way of knockout. He’s heavy handed and great to watch, but this will be his first world title tilt.
Clinton Woods – The Gatekeeper
Clinton Woods is an excellent boxer who has only fell down at the very highest level. The only man to have stopped him is the infamous Roy Jones Jr., and he holds victories over the likes of Glen Johnson.
However, time is not on the side of the Sheffield man. He has been a pro since 1994, and has boxed at world title level since the early 2000s. At the age of 37 it must be getting hard for Woods, and signs of his age showed against Antonio Tarver at the end of last year when he put in a horrendous performance and dropped a unanimous decision.
In addition to this, Woods doesn’t travel particularly well. He has boxed in the US twice previously in his professional career, and has lost both times. Throw in the fact that this is right near the home town of Cloud, and things look bleak for Woods.
Despite all of this though, Woods can’t be counted out, just because of the level of opposition he has faced. He also has a wealth of experience, something that Cloud doesn’t have, and he must make sure he uses this to his advantage.
Gonzalez – The Measuring Stick
Both Cloud and Woods fought Julio Cesar Gonzalez within a year of each other, and from this, it could be judged that Cloud has a significant advantage over his foe.
While Woods had to labour to a hard earned twelve round unanimous decision over the Mexican, Cloud became the first man to stop him, and during this fight, he imposed his physical strength and power on Gonzalez.
Admittedly, styles do make fights, but questions can still be asked about whether the young, hungry Cloud is just too much for the ageing veteran Woods.
Cloud – The Prospect
Tavoris Cloud is ten years younger than Clinton Woods, and possesses a great deal of power. However, he is still raw, and looks like he could be outboxed if Woods could impose himself on him.
Cloud hasn’t fought for over a year, and this could also play into the hands of Woods. The ring rust could highlight the technical inadequacies of Cloud, and this may give Woods an opening to work with. If Cloud turns up ready though, Clinton is in for a tough night.
Who Will Win Cloud vs. Woods?
Clinton Woods is the better boxer, but the hunger and strength of Cloud should carry him through, earning him the IBF Light Heavyweight crown. Expect the young buck to stop the tough veteran in the later rounds and open himself up to some big fights in the future.
How To Watch Woods vs. Cloud
In the US, this fight will be broadcast on ESPN on the ‘Friday Night Fights’ programme.
In the UK and Australia, the show can be bought via online PPV on the website of Seconds Out TV.
