By Peter Wells: Photo credit: Casino/Showtime – At the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas Joseph Agbeko and Abner Mares will contest to become the number one Bantamweight in the world. It is almost guaranteed to be a thrilling contest, which will be broadcast in the US on Showtime.

Mares is unbeaten and showed that he has huge potential when drawing with Yohnny Perez, which was enhanced when he defeated puncher, Vic Darchinyan via split decision. But his opponent tomorrow night is one that has defeated both those fighters and has the skills to cause Mares big problems.

Mares was extremely excited when interviewed in the final presser saying, “I feel great, i feel really excited.” But admits it won’t be easy, “I expect a tough fight, and it’s gonna be exciting.”

Agbeko has strongly stated that “the winner of this fight is the best bantamweight in the world”, and has dismissed Nonito Donaire for not accepting a place in the tournament. After avenging his defeat to Yohnny Perez in comfortable fashion he is feeling very confident. The Ghanaian also knows what it’s like to fight against the odds when he defeated Vic Darchinyan in a memorable fight.

This should be an interesting fight that is guaranteed to set alight at some point. Mares will find problems landing with fast combinations with Agbeko’s awkward style and strong defence, which could help him massively. I see Agbeko using a good jab and clever movement to win close rounds but both fighters will have rounds where they dominate. I don’t see any knockdowns in this fight but i believe Agbeko can eek out a close decision.