Denzel Bentley v Derrick Osaze: Prediction, Tips & Odds

bet365's boxing writer John MacDonald previews this weekend's domestic dust-up between Denzel Bentley and Derrick Osaze and explains where the betting value in the fight can be found.

Denzel Bentley v Derrick Osaze Tips

Denzel Bentley - By KO, TKO or Disqualification & Under 7.5 Rounds @ 11/10

Denzel Bentley is perhaps the biggest enigma in British boxing today.

The former British middleweight champion has, at times, looked far beyond that level, and a strong showing in his maiden world title tilt reinforced that belief.

Yet, two defeats and a draw at domestic level tell a different story.

At his best, ‘2 Sharp’ is an explosive, dangerous puncher with an awkward style and good timing. At his worst, the 29-year-old is too passive, while looking for one fight-ending shot.

So which Bentley will turn up at York Hall on 17 August to take on Derrick Osaze?

The Londoner looked backed to his best in May, sending Danny Dignum to the canvas three times en-route to a second-round stoppage. However, six months earlier, he was out-boxed by, the unfancied, Nathan Heaney.

The defeat to the man from Stoke-on-Trent was a bizarre showing, but subsequently, that performance became more understandable as it was revealed that Bentley’s son was born prematurely and was in intensive care at the time.

Bettors are of the opinion that the bout last November was simply a bad night at the office for the Battersea fighter and as such, he is a massive favourite here.

Given the erratic nature of Bentley, there is perhaps value to be had in backing ‘The Punching Preacher.’ The Nottingham-based ordained pastor is a natural athlete who played football semi-professionally, before turning his attention towards boxing.

The 30-year-old won the Ultimate BOXXER one-night knockout tournament in 2019; earning an impressive win over Kieron Conway in the process.

The sole loss of Osaze’s career came against Tyler Denny, in a Sheffield carpark, during the pandemic era. The bout was competitive and Denny has proven his class by subsequently capturing the European 160lbs belt.

Osaze has good upper body movement and fast hands. He’s a better fighter than the odds suggest.

That said, if Bentley can get close to the form shown against, WBO and IBF titlist, Janibek Alimkhanuly he should have too much for his opponent.

As such, a Bet Builder on 'Denzel Bentley to win the fight by KO/TKO and Under 7.5 Rounds' at 11/10 is the selection for me.

Denzel Bentley v Derrick Osaze Odds

(Odds will display when markets are available).

John MacDonald

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