Joshua Buatsi will look to continue his rapid climb up the light heavyweight ladder when he faces veteran Ricards Bolotniks on Saturday, Aug. 14. We have the betting odds and pick you need for this primetime clash.

Buatsi has heavy hands

The former 2016 bronze medalist has been moved along at a steadier pace than most prospects. Buatsi had his first 10 round fight in 2018, but hasn’t gone beyond the seventh, as he’s knocked out everyone he’s faced in the same time frame. In his last bout, Buatsi crushed the overmatched Daniel Dos Santos in four rounds last May.

Buatsi has is excellent finishing skills to go along with his impressive power. He isn’t forcing himself into a bad position with his offense, and he’s handled some decent journeymen rather easily. Though he’s only had 14 fights, Buatsi looks like he has the goods.

Bolotniks is having the run of his career

Since suffering his last defeat to Thabiso Mchunu in 2017, Bolotniks has won his last seven fights. Recently, Bolotniks won the light heavyweight edition of The Golden Contract Tournament, knocking out Serge Michel in the 10th round.

Key to Bolotniks’ run has been his advantage in size. The loss to Mchunu came at cruiserweight, and he has the aggressive style and experience to play spoiler to the undefeated Buatsi. 

Buatsi will mow down his experienced foe

Buatsi’s power and his capable finishing skills are going to take him a long way in this fight. Bolotniks has been knocked out in three of his five losses and isn’t hard to hit, meaning that he’ll need to make his mark early or Buatsi will drill him late.

For what it’s worth, Buatsi might be fighting down his level of opposition here. His faster hands and superior power will allow him to string together some punishing shots that will trouble his veteran foe. Should Bolotniks hit the floor, there’s a good chance he’ll come right back to a volley of shots that will end his night.

Expect Buatsi to continue his undefeated streak with an early stoppage of Bolotniks as he continues to make noise in the U.K. fight scene.

Boxing free pick: Buatsi