Brandon Rios vs. Richard Abril: Preview, Start Time, Live Streaming and Schedule

One of the biggest nights in the boxing world takes place this Saturday, when Brandon Rios takes on Richard Abril for the interim WBA lightweight championship. 

Rios is looking to save his reputation after being forced to vacate the title in December, when he missed weight against John Murray. 

Abril has been cruising along since a 2010 split-decision loss to Henry Lundy. He doesn't possess great power, but his stamina and technique have carried him to this, the biggest match in his career. 

Where: Mandalay Bay Casino in Las Vegas, Nev.

When: Saturday, April 14 at 10:00 p.m. ET

Watch: HBO Pay-Per-View

Live Streaming: HBO Boxing (available for $54.95)

Rios' Keys to Victory

Attack early, and wear Abril down in the middle rounds.

Rios' biggest advantage in this fight is his power. He comes out at the bell fast and furious, ready to dominate anyone or anything that stands in his way. 

In 29 career victories, Rios has 22 knockouts. He is going to swing the second that he is allowed to. He has good stamina, but he can't match Abril over the course of a 12-round fight. 

As long as Rios is able to land hard shots early, he will be able to keep his winning ways going. If not, he is going to be in for a long night. 

Abril's Keys to Victory

Don't try to match Rios punch-for-punch, and get the fight to the late rounds.

Abril needs to run around for 12 rounds, while at the same time peppering Rios with punches to the head and body to wear him down. 

Cardio and stamina are going to play a huge role in this fight, and Abril might be a better-trained athlete. He doesn't have the power to keep up with Rios, so it is incumbent upon him to make sure that he controls the tempo. 

Making it into the 10th, 11th and 12th rounds is going to give Abril the advantage that he needs to come out victorious, as long as he is making Rios work. 

What They Are Saying

Brandon Rios is nothing if not confident. 

In an interview with Diego Morilla of ESPN Deportes, Rios made it known that he does not fear Abril, nor does he believe that this fight will be a challenge:

"

So in the first few rounds, you never know what could happen. But I am ready for Abril, and hopefully he is ready 100 percent, because I am ready 100 percent and I am ready to show the world that he ain't nothing to me, and he ain't gonna be nothing after this fight.

 

"

Prediction

Rios is motivated to prove himself to anyone who might be doubting him after that debacle in December. He will put on a show in Las Vegas. 

Rios via KO

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