Five for 2019: Caparello vs. Dessaix
FOR the best part of seven years, Blake Caparello has sat atop the light heavyweight division.
Since making his rise to the top of the division domestically in the form of the national title in 2011, just two Australian-based challengers have stepped forward to offer their services.
With the ability to compete across three divisions, the technically proficient southpaw has maximised his potential to land high-profile fights.
But with a new challenge emerging in recent months, a fight with fast-rising Reagan Dessaix is a clear number one on our wish-list for 2019.
What we think:
The best thing about a clash between Caparello (28-3-1, 12 KOs) and Dessaix (16-1, 11 KOs) is that we won’t have to wait for it.
The pair are slated to meet next month for Dessaix’s WBA affiliated regional bauble and legitimate bragging rights as the best light heavyweight on these shores.
Despite being in the developing stage of his career, Dessaix has opted to take the biggest challenge available, after proving his worth over the last twelve months.
Comprehensive wins over mutual opponents Michael Van Nimwegen and Luke Sharp suggest that the Brisbane-based tactician is at the level to compete with the 32-year-old Caparello.
In spite of his apparent potential and poise, it took an upset knockout over the PBC-signed light heavyweight Steve Lovett in November to capture the attention of the Australian public.
Given the quality and up-side for both sides, it was refreshing to see such a high stakes match-up finalised with minimal fuss.
What the experts say – Ben Damon:
“The good news is this one is already happening on February 22 at the Melbourne Pavilion. We’ll see the cagey old bull Caparello fight the impressive young gun on the rise in Dessaix.
“Caparello has been there and done that at the very top level, and his 2018 was highlighted by a first round demolition of Trent Broadhurst.
“Dessaix is just 22 but showed again with his knockout of Steve Lovett that his right uppercut is one of the best punches in Australian boxing and that he might be something special.
“I can’t wait to call the action.”
Photo: Marty Camilleri
