It’s not even March yet, but one of the biggest boxing events of the year is nearly upon us. Two former world champions, each in the heart of their prime, facing off to claim the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title and claim their place as world champions when Brandon Figueroa takes on Mark Magsayo this Saturday on Showtime. The bout takes place in Ontario, California.

Both Brandon Figueroa and Mark Magsayo have near-perfect records. Each has fought in 25 matches in their professional careers. Figueroa has won 23, with one loss and one draw. Magsayo has 24 wins and just one loss. Magsayo began boxing at the age of eight, and fought in an estimated 200 fights before going pro

Figueroa is a much taller fighter than Magsayo: he’s two inches taller (5’8 vs 5’6) and has a longer reach (72.5 inches vs 68 inches). However, Magsayo is the bulkier fighter having fought more at 126 while Figueroa has spent his time at 122.

Magsayo lost the WBC Featherweight title back in July after an upset loss to Rey Vargas.

Figueroa suffered the first loss of his career via a majority decision against Stephen Fulton in November of 2021, before rebounding to defeat Carlos Castro with a sixth round technical knockout in the same event that saw Vargas dethrone Magsayo. Outside the ring however it has also been a struggle. Figueroa was arrested for allegedly driving while intoxicated in his hometown of Weslaco, Texas after his blood alcohol content came back as twice the legal limit.

As for the fight, Magsayo is not a difficult fighter to figure out. He comes forward and tries to get inside to brawl. He has solid power, as was on display when he brutally knocked out Julio Ceja to set up his title shot.

Figueroa is the more technically gifted fighter of the two. I believe he has more ways to win than Magsayo. The oddsmakers currently have him listed at -330. Magsayo is a +245 dog. Unless Magsayo catches lightning in a bottle, I cannot see him winning this fight. It would have to be a stoppage victory. I like this one to go all 12 rounds and that outcome to me only means one victor. I Like Figueroa to win by decision.