Heavyweight Jared Anderson is set to face off against Marios Kollias on the undercard of the Keyshawn Davis vs. Denys Berinchyk fight on February 14th at the Hula Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York.
The news of Anderson fighting Kollias on the Keyshawn-Berinchyk undercard was revealed by Lance Pugmore @pugboxing. While this may seem like a safe fight for the 25-year-old Anderson, he has shown vulnerability against lower-level opponents in the past.
A Crucial Match for Anderson
This may not be the ideal opponent for Jared Anderson, especially coming off a recent disappointing performance. With a record of 17-1, with 15 KOs, Anderson will be looking for redemption following his knockout loss to Martin Bakole in his last fight.
Given Anderson’s struggles in his previous fight, it’s understandable why Top Rank has opted for a relatively unknown opponent in the 33-year-old Kollias (12-3-1, 10 KOs). After his defeat to Bakole, putting Anderson up against a top contender would be a risky move.
If Anderson fails to secure a victory in this upcoming fight, Top Rank may need to reassess their investment in him. Despite high expectations of him becoming a future star in the heavyweight division, Anderson has shown vulnerability against lesser opponents.
Kollias is coming off a first-round knockout win in his last fight and will be a tough test for Anderson. In the main event, Keyshawn Davis will be challenging WBO lightweight champion Berinchyk, in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
It remains to be seen how Davis, a rising prospect, will fare against the experienced Berinchyk. Top Rank will need to tread carefully in their matchmaking for Davis to ensure his continued success in the ring.
