Purdy in for fight of his life against welterweight star Alexander

Lee Purdy steps into the Lion’s den as he deputises for the injured mandatory challenger Kell Brook against one of the more high profile fighters in the welterweight division – Devon Alexander.

For the IBF’s number four ranked fighter, Brook’s misfortune is his gain, as he sees his name mentioned in the same breath as the greats of the division. Victory would no doubt propel the man from Colchester on to the World stage, amongst the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather, Juan Manuel Marquez and Timothy Bradley who compete in the 147lb weight category.

However, the Matchroom boxer’s form over the last 20 months since surrendering his British welterweight crown – by way of a majority points’ decision to Colin Lynes – has seen a recovery record of four straight victories, including winning the English welterweight and IBF international welterweight titles.

With a career record of 20-2-1 and 12 knockouts, odds of 9/1 to walk away from Atlantic City with his first major world title appear a little long and could entice backers looking for a British win.

Nicknamed “Lights Out”, Tony Sims charge faces an unbelievably tough challenge ahead, with Alexander boasting a 24-1 record with 13 KO’s. He counts three-time champion Randall Bailey as his most recent victim, and at 1/25, it is difficult to see anything other than victory for the man from St Louis.

A draw is also on offer at 40/1, and with the record of both opponents, it offers value for punters who are looking for a close outcome. Should Purdy leave the ring victorious, however, the Brit would certainly send shock waves through the whole boxing fraternity.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing