Ryan Murray vs. James Smith
Smith and Murray fought a back and forth fight for two rounds. It seemed Murray was on the brink of defeat at the end of the first round, but he came storming back in the second round. Unfortunately for both fighters a torn bicep ended Smith's night early. Injuries occur all the time in sports and no fighter wants to take a win simply because their opponent was injured. Murray really turned things around in the second stanza and it seemed it could have eventually resulted in a stoppage victory, but with the injury we did not have a chance to find out. A re-match is fitting due to the unfortunate ending of this bout.
Ognjen Topic vs. Anthony Castrejon
Topic pro record now stands at 3-2, one of his losses was a razor thing split decision and the other many consider a controversial decision (Anthony Castrejon). Castrejon has had one more fight since their first meeting and looked impressive in his one sided victory over Ryan Ratcliffe. There is no reason for the re-match between these two to wait any longer. Topic has continuously been active, showcasing his solid all around game and Castrejon looked impressive in his lone match after their fight. Topic deserves another opportunity to avenge the controversial loss on his record and Castrejon deserves the opportunity to show that his win wasn't just a gift from the judges.
Turan Hasanov vs. Borzoo Honargohar/Sheldon Gaines
Hasanov has shown he can hang with some solid opposition and that he is tough as nails. The 140lb weight class is stacked with good talent in North America and moving up is going to be tough for anyone in that weight class. Hasanov has made it clear he will fight anyone any time, but for his career to progress he needs to take small steps. A match-up against someone like Borzoo Honargohar or a re-match against Sheldon Gaines will give him a tough test without throwing him into deep waters against the upper echelon of the division.
Phil LeGrand vs. Nate Chambers
With LeGrand's decision to go pro, it will be interesting to see who he is matched up with for his debut. There are some very good fighters in the 154lb weight class throughout North America. Unless another highly touted amateur decides to turn pro, the match-up that makes the most sense is against Nate Chambers from Las Vegas. Chambers recently turned pro and won his debut via KO. LeGrand's unique style has helped him climb up the amateur ladder and it will be interesting to see how it works in the pro ranks. Chambers has well rounded skills that will give LeGrand a solid test to start his pro career.
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