Boxing analyst Teddy Atlas predicts that O’Shaquie Foster will win his rematch against WBC super featherweight champion Robson Conceicao. The bout will take place Saturday night at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. According to Atlas, the combination of Foster’s youth (31, record 22-3, 12 KOs) and the pressure on the judges will favor him, helping him secure “sweet revenge” over Conceicao (36, 19-2-1, 9 KOs).
In their first encounter on July 6, Foster didn’t put in his best effort, thinking that his few counter punches would sway the judges. However, this rematch was quickly organized after Foster and his fans demanded a chance to redeem himself. Atlas noted that in their previous fight, Foster’s Mayweather-like defensive, counter-punching style couldn’t handle Conceicao’s relentless and dominant approach, which allowed him to control each round. This strong impression ultimately led the judges to award the victory to Conceicao, a 2016 Olympic champion.
Atlas also remarked that boos from the crowd could have influenced the judges’ decision. The previous fight’s results included scores of 116-112 and 115-113 for Conceicao, while Foster received a 116-112. Some fans viewed Conceicao as the clear winner, scoring him at 117-111. Foster’s approach of evading punches and only striking in the last few seconds was seen as lacking effort, showing disrespect to the audience.
Atlas predicts that Foster has learned his lesson and will adopt a more proactive and aggressive fighting style. However, he also notes that with Foster’s defensive, single-shot approach, it may be difficult for him to completely transform his style. Meanwhile, Conceicao, who has faced injustices in previous bouts, will be determined to defend his WBC title and fight with full effort to retain his glory.
Atlas concluded, “I believe Foster will do better this time, but Conceicao won’t let go easily.”
