Both fighters know this could be their last chance to hit the big time
It’s every boxers worst nightmare to be known as ‘a nearly man’ – someone who fought their way up to world level but crumbled on the big stage.
At this point in their careers the dreaded title could be mentioned when speaking about both Carson Jones and Brian Rose who meet in Blackpool on Saturday night.
American Carson Jones made his name in 2010 when he gave wonder-kid Kell Brook the toughest fight of his career and looked like he could win the fight but fell short on a majority decision. The rematch was more of a formality for Kell Brook who had learnt from the pair’s first bout.
Similarly, Brit Brian Rose hasn’t been able to capitalise on big opportunities so far in his career. In June 2014, Rose faced the supremely talented and awkward Demetrius Andrade for the WB0 World Super Welterweight Title. Not many gave him a chance and the critics were proved right. ‘The Lion’ was tamed by Andrade and KO’d in the 7th round which capped off a miserable performance.
However, we know Rose is capable of so much more than he showed on that night in New York. Dominant and impressive wins over the likes of Sam Webb and Joachim Alcine showed the 29-year-old’s array of boxing skills – something that gives Rose a big advantage in this fight.
Carson Jones is a very tough and gritty fighter however he’s certainly capable of being out-skilled by his opponent, something Rose will be confident of doing. The Americans inactivity is another factor that will encourage Rose. Jones only had one fight last year against journeyman Shannon Miller. I therefore expect Rose to shock Jones early on with his quickness and slick jab.
Jones’ game plan will be simple – try and entice Rose into a brawl. We’ve seen in the Kell Brook fights that Jones can absorb a lot of punishment and also give it back. If Rose resists the temptation to have a scrap and instead boxes from range and use his skill I see this being a relatively easy night for the Englishman.
The fight will take place in Rose’s native Blackpool on the Prizefighter bill and I expect the crowd to push their man through to a points win.
