Raymond Muratalla vs. Zaur Abdullaev: Picks, Predictions and Odds

Raymond Muratalla will look to prove he is the real deal on the big stage this weekend as he takes on Zaur Abdullaev for the vacant IBF lightweight title.

The two men will put everything on the line in San Diego as the co-feature to Emanuel Navarrete vs. Charly Suarez.

Muratalla is considered one of the best young American prospects, and two wins over Tevin Farmer and Jesus Perez have put him in line for the IBF crown.

A fight against Vasiliy Lomachenko could be next for the winner but both men should not overlook each other first in what could be a thrilling battle.

Raymond Muratalla vs. Zaur Abdullaev betting picks and predictions

Raymond Muratalla to win by decision or technical decision (+200)

Nine years after turning professional, Californian Muratalla is now boxing for his first world title.

"Danger" has earned rave reviews by ringside pundits for his aggressive style and he has won all 22 fights in his career. Muratalla has registered 17 stoppage wins so far, but he may not have it all his own way this weekend.

His knockout win over Perez in November showcased the power he carries, but Abdullaev has won nine fights in a row since he was stopped by Devin Haney.

Losing to a world-class operator in Haney is nothing to be ashamed about, and the two men have contrasting styles, which could make this fight a thrilling watch.

Muratalla likes to fight on the front foot and looks to break open his opponents' guard before working through his combinations.

He carries plenty of power and if he can pin Abdullaev down, he should enjoy plenty of success.

However, Russian Abdullaev is careful with his high guard and keeps himself well protected. His ability to punch in traffic should unsettle Muratalla, and with a world title on the line, neither fighter will want to take unnecessary risks.

Abdullaev has won 11 of his 20 fights by knockout, but he does not have the same skillset and speed of Muratalla and should put up a gutsy effort before losing on points.

Most Jabs Thrown - Zaur Abdullaev (-188)

Muratalla is -750 to win this fight, suggesting he is expected to cruise to victory in San Diego.

That is a fair suggestion considering his unbeaten record, but he does a lot of his work off potshot punches. He aims to pierce the guard of his opponents, whereas Abdullaev does a lot of work from his jab before returning to his high guard.

Abdullaev is a big fan of doubling up his left jab, which helps him unsettle his rivals and gives him space to move out of trouble. He is likely to fight on the back foot this weekend and will try and pick Muratalla off as he comes on the offensive.

Fighters need to be brave to win world titles and Abdullaev is going to need to take risks and put himself in the firing line on occasions.

Muratalla is the heavy favorite for a reason, but Abdullaev will look to use the American's aggression against him to keep him at bay with some sharp and accurate jabs.

Raymond Muratalla vs. Zaur Abdullaev odds

	Raymond Muratalla	Zaur Abdulaev
Money Line	-750	+475
By KO, TKO, DQ	-150	+1400
By Decision or Technical Decision	+200	+900

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.