This Saturday, December 7, 2024, the boxing world will turn its attention to Birmingham, where two of Britain’s most talented flyweights, Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai, will face off for the vacant WBC interim flyweight title. The fight will take place at the Resorts World Arena, with the event being broadcast live on DAZN. Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing promotes the night of action, which is expected to deliver an exciting battle between two boxers with contrasting styles and ambitions.

Sunny Edwards: The Master of Movement

Sunny Edwards, with a professional record of 21 wins and just one loss, has long been recognized for his technical prowess and elusive style. Known as “Showtime,” Edwards has developed a reputation as one of the best pure boxers in the division. His standout moment came in April 2021, when he claimed the IBF world flyweight title with a dominant win over Moruti Mthalane. Edwards successfully defended the title four times before facing Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez in December 2023. The fight was a significant challenge, as Rodriguez dominated the contest and forced Edwards to retire after the ninth round, ending his reign as champion.

Edwards comes into this fight with a lot to prove after the setback against Rodriguez. His most recent outing, in June 2024, saw him take a wide technical decision over Adrian Curiel. The fight was halted due to a cut sustained by Edwards, but he was in control throughout. His technical boxing, ring craft, and exceptional footwork make him a difficult opponent for anyone, but his lack of knockout power means that he has to rely heavily on outboxing his opponents rather than overwhelming them with force.

Galal Yafai: The Rising Star

On the other side of the ring is Galal Yafai, a 2020 Olympic gold medalist who has been fast-tracked through the professional

ranks. Yafai, with an undefeated record of 8-0, 6 KOs, has proven himself to be a powerful and aggressive fighter. He made an immediate impact in his professional debut, defeating Carlos Bautista via stoppage to claim the WBC International title. Since then, he has defended that title five times, steadily building momentum.

In 2024, Yafai showcased his power with two notable victories. In April, he stopped Agustin Gauto in the eighth round, followed by a dominant third-round stoppage of Sergio Oroczo Oliva in September. With a dangerous knockout punch and a relentless attacking style, Yafai poses a serious threat to Edwards. However, Yafai will need to adjust his tactics when facing a boxer with the technical skills and movement of Edwards.

The Fight: A Clash of Styles

This showdown represents a classic contrast of styles—Edwards, the technical boxer with a superb defense, against Yafai, the heavy-handed puncher who seeks to impose his power. While Edwards has shown the ability to outbox and control his opponents with speed and technique, Yafai’s knockout power could be the deciding factor in this matchup. Yafai will likely try to cut off the ring, pressuring Edwards and using his strength to land significant blows. Meanwhile, Edwards will look to use his footwork and precision to avoid Yafai’s power, relying on his superior technique and sharp counters to win rounds.

Edwards’ biggest challenge will be weathering the storm from Yafai’s early onslaught. If he can survive the opening rounds and frustrate Yafai with his elusiveness, Edwards will be able to control the pace of the fight. However, if Yafai can corner Edwards and land his heavy punches, he could stop the fight before it goes the distance.

Predictions

This is a highly competitive fight that could go in either direction. Edwards is the more experienced fighter in terms of world title fights, and his technical ability gives him a strong edge in the early rounds. However, Yafai’s power and aggressive style make him the favorite to land the decisive blows. Ultimately, this fight could go down to whether Edwards can continue to evade Yafai’s power and dictate the pace of the fight.

Prediction: Yafai’s power will prove to be too much for Edwards, and I believe Yafai will secure a stoppage win in the later rounds.

Undercard Action: Competitive Fights Ahead

The undercard promises more exciting action, starting with Kieron Conway’s clash with Ryan Kelly for the vacant Commonwealth middleweight title. Conway (21-3-1, 6 KOs) is on a solid run, having won three straight fights, and should have the upper hand against Kelly (19-4-1, 8 KOs), who has been inconsistent in recent bouts. Conway should secure a win by decision, based on his experience and recent form.

Other notable matchups include Cameron Vuong (6-0, 3 KOs) against Gavin Gwynne (17-3-1, 5 KOs) in a step-up for Vuong, and a welterweight crossroads bout between Conah Walker (13-3-1, 5 KOs) and Lewis Ritson (23-4, 13 KOs). Walker, who has shown promise, could score a surprise win here, while Ritson’s best days may be behind him.

Finally, Callum Smith (28-2, 20 KOs) returns to action for the first time since his January loss to Artur Beterbiev, facing Carlos Galvan in a fight Smith should win with relative ease, likely by early stoppage.

Conclusion

The showdown between Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai for the WBC interim flyweight title is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with both fighters bringing unique strengths to the ring. While Edwards is the more technical boxer, Yafai’s power could be the difference-maker. Fans can expect an action-packed evening with the potential for more than just the main event to produce fireworks. With plenty of talent on the undercard, the event promises to be one not to miss.