Tim Bradley: Raymond Muratalla Too Big For Robson Conceicao

The Hall of Famer expects the IBF lightweight champion’s size and ring maturity to break down the former Olympic gold medalist in Las Vegas.

Tim Bradley expects Raymond Muratalla to deliver a statement victory when he defends his IBF lightweight title against Robson Conceicao on Saturday. Bradley believes Muratalla’s size, lightweight experience and punching authority will lead to a stoppage.

Conceicao’s durability and experience earned Bradley’s respect, yet he questioned how much the 37-year-old former Olympic gold medalist has left after years of tough fights. He also cited Conceicao’s move up from 130 pounds as another challenge against an established lightweight.

“I think Muratalla is just a better fighter,” Bradley said on his channel. “Skill for skill, power for power, blow for blow. Conceicao is going to be tough, but it ain’t going to be enough. Muratalla hits a lot harder. I think he has better technique with his shots as well. I think he has a great boxing IQ.”

Weight class experience often influences matchmaking decisions, Bradley argued. In his view, an established lightweight usually holds the edge over an opponent moving up in weight.

“So, like matchmakers know this is a guy that’s moving up from 130 to 135,” Bradley said. “But on another note, Muratalla, he big as hell. He’s been established.”

One issue did give Bradley pause. He questioned how much longer Muratalla can continue making the 135-pound limit after spending about a decade in the division, noting that some of his performances have suggested difficult weight cuts. That concern was not enough to change Bradley’s outlook.

“I’m expecting a knockout, man, against Conceicao,” Bradley said. “Put… make a statement. Make a statement, Muratalla.”

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