Already today Nick Ball defends his WBA featherweight title against former two-weight world champion Brandon Figueroa at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena, live on DAZN, and of course Boxing Showtimes can't just miss such an event. Here’s our own take on how the fight could unfold and our true fan prediction for the outcome:
History: Ball’s Rise and Figueroa’s Road Back
Ball (23-0-1, 13 KOs) has built his reputation as one of boxing’s most active and aggressive champions. After a controversial draw with Rey Vargas, he captured the WBA title in June 2024 by outworking Raymond Ford over twelve punishing rounds. Back in Liverpool, Ball followed that performance with emphatic knockout wins over Ronny Rios and T.J. Doheny, underlining his ability to sustain pressure at championship level. Although he appeared to need a rest during his points win over Sam Goodman last August, a break from competition has allowed the 28-year-old to reset ahead of another demanding test.
Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KOs) arrives in Liverpool for the first overseas fight of his professional career. Known for his all-action approach, the Texan suffered a setback in February 2025 when he lost his WBC featherweight title to Stephen Fulton Jr. in their rematch. Since then, Figueroa has regrouped under new trainer Manny Robles and earned his shot at Ball with a July victory over Joet Gonzalez in a title eliminator. Still only 29, he remains highly ranked and appears to have targeted Ball as the ideal opponent to launch another championship run.
Tactics and What We Think Will Decide the Fight
On paper, the contrast in size stands out too much, so of course we should keep it in mind while making our prediction. At five feet nine inches, Figueroa holds a significant height and reach advantage over the five-foot-two Ball, but styles complicate that equation. Ball thrives against taller opponents, using a compact frame, sharp entries, and relentless bursts to close distance. Figueroa, despite his physical advantages, prefers to fight aggressively at close range, often surrendering reach in favor of pressure. That shared willingness to engage suggests a physically demanding contest, where positioning, punch economy, and endurance could outweigh technical subtleties.
Ball’s challenge will be to slip inside without presenting clear counterpunching opportunities, particularly when exchanges tighten. His ability to punch upward and work in compact combinations may limit the space Figueroa needs. For the challenger, success likely depends on making Ball pay at mid-range with jabs and hooks before the champion can fully impose his pressure. If the fight turns into a prolonged test of will, Figueroa must match Ball’s work rate while keeping his punches disciplined and efficient.
Final Prediction
The matchup promises sustained intensity, but Ball’s familiarity with this kind of physical battle and his comfort against taller opponents give him a clear advantage. Figueroa’s toughness and aggression should keep the fight competitive early, yet Ball’s volume and persistence are likely to wear him down as the rounds progress.
Boxing Showtimes' Prediction: Nick Ball by late stoppage.