Evgeny Gradovich vs. Billy Dib: Fight Time, Date, TV Info and More

[Bleacher Report]

http://ringnews24.com/images/pixel.gifThe undercard for the Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios fight in Macao, China, isn't filled with notable names. That said, there is a featherweight title bout on tap.

IBF featherweight champion Evgeny "The Mexican Russian" Gradovich (17-0, 8 KOs) and Billy "The Kid" Dib (36-2, 21 KOs) will renew acquaintances after their first fight in March was a sloppy, grimy battle.

In the end, Gradovich unexpectedly dethroned Dib by a split decision. Both men have won fights since their first meeting and now we have a partially anticipated rematch. The first fight was competitive, but it lacked pizazz. Perhaps the rematch will be more entertaining.

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Gradovich will not only be looking to defend his title for the second time and prove without question that he's a better fighter than Dib, but he'll also be hoping to set up some bigger and better paydays in the future.

Dib wants his title back after a narrow defeat earlier this year. He'll get his opportunity to go for it in front of a large audience. Here's how you can watch the action, along with a closer look at their featherweight title bout.

 

When: Saturday, Nov. 23 at 9 p.m. ET

Where: Macao, China

TV: HBO PPV

 

Taking it to the Next Level

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Gradovich didn't begin his professional career until he was 23 years old. Since then, he has moved rapidly through the ranks. Taking Dib's title via split decision has been the pinnacle up to this point.

Their first fight was broadcast on ESPN Friday Night Fights on the ESPN2 network. A world title is a world title, but needless to say, Gradovich is looking to continue his ascent up the ladder of exposure.

He's now fighting on the undercard of a pay-per-view card and another win could lead to a unification bout, which could result in Gradovich headlining an HBO event.

None of that happens, however, unless he beats Dib for the second time. Motivation never seems to be a problem for Gradovich, so I highly doubt it will be an issue on Saturday.

 

Will the Real Billy Dib Please Stand Up?

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At times, Dib has looked like a future superstar. Other times, he's looked lethargic, overwhelmed and thus has underachieved. Against Gradovich in March, Dib ran into a relative unknown with Gradovich a late replacement after Luis Franco pulled out.

Dib obviously didn't have much time to prepare for his opponent and it showed in the ring. The split decision was actually generous. I had Gradovich winning, eight rounds to four.

This time, Dib will have no excuse. He should be fully prepared for what Gradovich brings to the table, but can Dib regain his title?

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Prediction

Both men are battlers and this fight figures to be another knockdown, drag-out affair. Dib must find a way to counter Gradovich's constant assault. Instead of fighting nearly the entire bout while backpedaling, Dib must use more lateral movement and change angles. Usually, he likes to stand and trade blows in close quarters, but he can't beat Gradovich with that style.

Their first fight looked a little like Amir Khan vs. Lamont Peterson, with Dib playing Khan. Dib simply didn't know how to handle the pressure.

Gradovich is rugged and sneaky on the inside. His stamina was the difference in the first fight and it will win him the rematch. Dib has an excellent chin and Gradovich isn't a devastating puncher, so there won't be a KO.

But the decision shouldn't be as close as it was in the first fight. Gradovich will win by unanimous decision to retain the title and move on to bigger and better things.

 

Follow me for news and musings on The Sweet Science.

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