Wait turned in agony and frustration. That’s how you can sum up the situation of Brandon Figueroa, who was waiting for Rey Vargas. But that never happened. Now, he is set to defend his interim WBC featherweight crown against Jessie Magdaleno on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia undercard. So, who wins it on May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas?

It is an amusing fight, with both fighters coming off a layoff period and eager to showcase their boxing prowess. However, this high-stakes fight comes at a contrasting crossroads for both fighters. Figueroa is reaching his prime and looking to build an impressive career, but he didn’t want to be stuck waiting. Meanwhile, Magdaleno is looking to turn back his fortunes and prove his boxing credentials. How do they stack up before their face-off this Saturday?

Brandon Figueroa vs. Jessie Magdaleno: a tale of the tape

Figueroa, at 27, is not only the younger of the two but also has wider dimensions than the challenger. The younger brother of Omar Figueroa Jr., Brandon, stands tall at  5′ 9″ (175cm) and carries a reach advantage of 72.0″ (184cm). In addition, he has built a reputation as an explosive fighter with an impressive record of 24-1-1 (18 KOs). His KO ratio of 75% drops a hint towards the carnage he brings to the ring. The Texas native weighed 125.8 lbs when he entered the ring the last time.

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Meanwhile, Magdaleno, at 32, is more experienced and has more fights under his belt. He has an uphill task in fighting a taller opponent and negates the interim champion’s reach advantage as he measures 5’4″ (163cm) tall and has a reach of 66.0″ (168cm). His record of 29-2 with 18 KOs speaks volumes about his caliber, which he has failed to justify in his last fight. Moreover, his KO ratio of 62% paints a clinical picture of him as a boxer, compared to his opponent, who relies more on brawling than fighting with precision. He also weighs more, at 126.0 lbs (57.2 kgs). But how have these numbers helped them in the ring?

Recent form, momentum, and fighting style

Figueroa is coming into the fight on the heels of a decision win over Mark Magsayo last March. He is on a two-fight win streak since dropping a controversial fight to Stephen Fulton Jr. and looks set to continue with his previous streak before the loss. Despite his fight with Vargas not materializing, he feels great. He wants to put on a show for the fans as he ends his 14-month layoff.

What separates him from the rest is his fan-friendly style, volume punching, and come-forward style. Additionally, the American boxer comes in great shape, which adds to his power. On the other hand, Magdaleno has had some slow years. His injuries, management issues, and loss against Isaac Dogboe derailed his career before he decided to move up.

Notably, Magdaleno has only fought three times since 2020 and comes into the fight after sustaining a loss against the WBA champion, Raymond Ford. What works in the Las Vegas native’s favor is his experience and the quality of opposition he has faced in the past. He has to implement his learning from previous fights, as he might not get a chance to breathe against Figueroa. But can he put on another staggering performance like he did against Nonito Donaire and bag a world title?

Prediction: Who wins it?

If you look at the gap in the two fighters’ dimensions and sizes, you would expect Figueroa to use jab and distance. However, this is not the case. He wants to fight and crush his opponent. That also leaves him vulnerable and open to his opponent’s counter-strikes. The fight will be decided whether Magdaleno will try to take him down or bide his time to land critical blows of his own.

The challenger is already mentally preparing for a brawl and is watching tapes to size up the champion. Magdaleno’s experience is sure to make a difference during their fight. But can he match the energy and zeal of Figueroa? That’s highly unlikely. Figueroa might prove too much to handle for him, given how hungry he has been in the last year to exhibit what he got. We have Figueroa winning by unanimous decision. However, Magdaleno has enough chances of bringing in an upset.

What do you make of this coming fight between Brandon Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno? Who do you think will emerge victorious in their encounter? Let us know in the comments below.