If this Saturday’s fight between WBC champion Francisco Vargas - 23-0-1, 17 KOs - and Orlando Salido - 43-13-3, 30 KOs - goes as expected, we’ll have a definitive candidate for 2016 Fight of the Year.
The words “can’t-miss fight” gets tossed around too much these days, but this one of those times it fits the bill.
Bet on boxing odds at BookMaker.eu
Francisco Vargas -227
Orlando Salido +175
Please note, the boxing odds at BookMaker are updated on daily basis. The lines listed here may have changed since this article was posted.
ODDS ANALYSIS
Vargas is more than a 2-to-1 favorite, and currently you’d have to bet $227 to win $100. Former champion Salido is at +175. This sounds about right, as Salido is probably a bit past his prime at 35. But that guy comes to fight every time, and he’s still doing it a high level. At 31, Vargas is squarely in his prime.
THE LEAD-IN
Last year, Salido fought twice against Puerto Rico’s Roman Martinez. Although he lost one and fought to a draw in another, the bouts themselves were thrilling spectacles. For what it’s worth, there are a lot of people who feel that Salido was robbed in their rematch -- he appeared to handily win at least 8 of 12 rounds.
Don’t be fooled by Salido’s lackluster record. He’s consistently faced the best fighters in the world, and has never been an easy fight. The three-time world champion has never been flashy, but has won over plenty of fans on heart alone. That’s not to say he’s unskilled -- he knows every trick in the book.
Vargas captured the WBC 130-pound title last November with a spectacular ninth round KO win over Takashi Miura this past November. After being knocked down in the fourth, Vargas fought back to take control of the fight. Although he was badly cut and his eye was completely closed, Vargas rallied back to take control of the fight.
That display of grit was a new look for Vargas, and it’s a big reason why many think this Saturday’s bout will be a favorite for fight of the year. The 2008 Olympian is relishing the opportunity to face the popular fighter and win over some more fans.
BETTING VALUES AND ANALYSIS
As much as I’m a fan of Salido, he gets hit alot. That’s just his style. While he should be able to make it to the final bell, it’s hard not to see him get busted up by the younger, faster Vargas. Salido will definitely get some hits in and win a few rounds, but this should be a clear victory for Vargas. At -227, he’s not a cheap play, but you can still make some decent coin on him to win.
Boxing odds: Francisco Vargas UD Orlando Salido
BET ON BOXING NOW
With BookMaker Sportsbook, you can bet on boxing all year, from regional cards to pay-per-view events. Access live betting lines from your mobile device at BookMaker Sportsbook. Vargas vs. Salido takes place Saturday, June 4, at the StubHub Center in Carson, California. The card will be aired on HBO starting 10 p.m. ET.
