Panel: Crolla-Linares picks

Anthony Crolla is the third British world champion in action in as many weeks, but will he make it third time lucky against Jorge Linares.

Kell Brook and Liam Smith were taking on their sternest tests as is ‘Million Dollar’ in the shape of a three-weight world champion.

At least Crolla is on home soil in Manchester and even the bookmakers are making him the favourite, so we asked current fighters, trainers and our team of pundits to give is their predictions…

Kell Brook

I think Linares a lot smarter than people are saying. Even if Crolla tucks up, Linares is not going to burn himself out, he’s just a very clever fighter. Crolla’s got to be tidy and clean cut, get behind the jab – everything comes off that – and box sharp. I am leaning towards Crolla but it is going to come down to who is the best fighter on the night.

David Coldwell

For me, Linares is the favourite – only slightly, probably 55-45 – but timing in boxing can be absolutely everything and Crolla is the sort of kid that will refuse to be beaten. It means everything to him – just like Hatton-Tszyu. I don’t actually think this one is going to go to points either, we’re looking at a late stoppage for Crolla. (Crolla to win by stoppage: 9/4 with Sky Bet)

Carl Froch

Crolla does have the constant pressure but I would put him down as an intelligent, front-foot defensive fighter, which is good because we know Linares doesn’t waste many shots. Crolla just does the job and he will do this job well. He will get to Linares like he did with Perez and Barroso and I will always go for him on points, but we could even be looking at a late stoppage.

Ricky Burns …

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