Sam Goodman asserts he intends to overwhelm WBA featherweight titleholder Nick Ball in their scheduled 12-round co-main event this Saturday in Riyadh. Goodman (20-0, 8 KOs) displays no apprehension towards the intense, aggressive approach favored by the 5’2″ Ball (22-0-1, 13 KOs).
Ball vs. Goodman in Riyadh
Ideally, from a spectator perspective, Goodman, 26, can deliver a compelling contest and perhaps even achieve a surprise victory over Ball. The headline attraction, featuring heavyweights Moses Itauma and Dillian Whyte, is anticipated to be somewhat one-sided. Therefore, to ensure viewers feel they receive value for the $49.99 DAZN PPV event, Goodman’s performance might need to be exceptionally captivating to justify the cost.
The selection of Goodman, a super bantamweight, by Ball, is a source of some dismay. Had Ball only occasionally selected competitors from the 122-lb division to challenge his WBA 126-lb title, it might be overlooked. However, this marks the third consecutive instance, suggesting a deliberate strategy to aid Ball in maintaining his championship.
This perspective is hard to avoid, given that Ball’s chosen opponents do not represent the top echelon of competition. His previous two title defenses against super bantamweights involved TJ Doheny, aged 38, and Ronny Rios, aged 34.
Goodman’s Lifelong Dream on DAZN
“My condition is outstanding. I’m thrilled to be present, and I’m primed to execute my strategy,” Sam Goodman conveyed to DAZN Boxing during today’s Grand Arrivals in Riyadh, in anticipation of his bout against WBA featherweight titleholder Nick Ball on Saturday. “I’m prepared to manage things effectively. My preparation has been thorough, intensive, and I’m completely ready.”
Goodman’s strength doesn’t lie in his punching power. This could be a disadvantage for him, as he may struggle to keep Ball at bay, something a more powerful featherweight might achieve, provided Ball was receptive to facing a contender from the 126-lb division, which he appears hesitant to do.
“This represents a longstanding ambition and aspiration for me and my team. We’ve dedicated ourselves tirelessly toward this goal. We’re set to accomplish it this Sunday,” Goodman stated. “I am absolutely determined to overcome him. That’s my intention,” Sam asserted, upon being informed that Nick Ball, the ‘wrecking ball,’ would be aggressively targeting him on Saturday.
Can Ball Keep His Belt?
“Directly into action, all engagement. I recognize my responsibilities for the evening and the task at hand,” Ball explained. “Having achieved this title, I’m determined to retain it. My hunger has intensified. Maintaining focus on the fundamental element that brought me here, which is the fight itself, is crucial. I foresee Moses [Itauma] securing a significant victory,” Nick commented, sharing his prediction for the main event.
