Not too long ago Andrew Cancio (20–4–2, 15 KO) stepped into the ring as a 15–1 underdog against and the lightweight title holder, and more impressively, unbeaten Alberto Machado (21–1, 17 KO). However, as the night proceeded Machado eventually found himself dangling from the ropes, unable to continue and consequently surrendering his title belt the underdog Cancio. Understandably motivated after earning his first career loss, Machado waited not long at all to request a rematch. Just four months removed from his first ever loss, tonight Machado will attempt to paint over his young career’s only flaw, as Machado and Cancio will meet in the ring once more.
Machado weighs in at 129 lbs, while his opponent Cancio beats him out by a pound at 130 lbs. The fight poises to play out nearly as close as each competitor’s weight totals, as contest will likely mirror its predecessor which appeared quite even until Cancio eventually pulled away after dropping Machado three times during the fourth round. Coming into the fight Machado already holds some key advantages over Cancio, as he stands at 5-foot-10, 17–inch reach. Meanwhile Cancio stretches with far shorter measurements at 5’6 with a 68–inch reach.
Although Machado’s stature favors him entering the bout tonight, it mattered not during the first fight between the two, as Cancio’s ability to apply constant pressure and keep his opponent on the defensive payed off, eventually tiring out Machado and leading to a knockout. Although the champ certainly plans to add other aspects to it, his strategy will likely remain similar, aiming to attack Machado up close and wearing him out with excessive body punches. Machado will look to avoid playing into Cancio’s steamrolling style, as keeping his distance and moving well around the canvas could open up further opportunities for Machado deal out damage to Cancio with his long reach.
Although the fight’s odds remain momentarily undetermined, most around the boxing universe predict Cancio to continue his reign as the champ and defeat Machado again in another close fight. The bell will ignite Cancio and Machado’s highly anticipated sequel tonight at approximately 11 p.m. ETS. The fight becomes available on DAZN once coverage starts at 7:30 p.m. ETS.
