Thirty-three-year-old Chordale Booker, currently ranked No. 8 by the WBO, continues to make an impact both in the ring and as a trainer.
Booker, who has developed a notable social media presence for his boxing insights, shared his thoughts on the upcoming junior welterweight fight between Sandy Ryan (7-1-1, 3 KOs) and Mikaela Mayer (19-2, 5 KOs) which takes place this Friday.
Mayer, who will face Ryan in a 10-round main event at Madison Square Garden Theater in New York City, has impressed Booker during her recent visits to the gym. “Mikaela surprised me with her size when she came into the gym. She’s making 130 pounds, which is impressive,” Booker said. “She’s quick, sharp, and her right hand is going to be a big factor in the fight.”
Booker also noted that Mayer's slick movements and powerful punches are key strengths. “Mikaela’s been practicing getting her head off the line before and after her punches,” he said. “Ryan’s upright, hands up. She's going to be willing to trade, and then Mikaela gets up under her shots, she's not going to see that shot coming, the shot that Mikaela is countering with.”
Regarding the weight class, Booker does not see it as a significant issue. “Mikaela has been at the top of the sport for a long time, and she’s sparred with bigger fighters throughout her career,” Booker said. “The height and long-range fighting of Ryan might pose a challenge initially, but once Mayer adapts, she’ll likely break Ryan down round by round.”
Booker also provided insight into Ryan’s style. “Sandy Ryan fights well on the outside but tends to be too upright,” Booker said.
The added rivalry between the two fighters is expected to intensify the bout. “The bad blood will motivate both fighters,” Booker said. “With the two-minute rounds, they won’t have much time to set things up, so expect them to engage quickly.”
Booker is confident in Mayer’s ability to win. “I would have already said this, that Mikaela wins the fight, but now after working with her I’m even more certain she’ll win this fight. Because I've done pad work with her, body shield work… I've had her punch me without the body shield, you know? So, I know what she brings to the table,” Booker said.
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