Location: M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool 

Date: March 15th, 2025

The atmosphere of the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool is set to explode again on as local hero, and one of UK boxing’s most exciting fighters Nick “The Wrecking” Ball squares off against the experienced Irish campaigner, TJ Doheny. This featherweight clash promises a good clash of styles, with Ball’s relentless pressure meeting Doheny’s seasoned ringwork.

Nick “The Wrecking” Ball (21-0-1, 12 KOs) has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting and popular fighters in Britain, if not the world. His aggressive, high-volume style, coupled with his undeniable power, has seen him dismantle opponents and capture the hearts of fight fans. Ball’s ability to swarm, throw punches from unorthodox angles, and maintain a ferocious pace is a nightmare for anyone. He’s proven he can absorb punishment and keep coming, a hallmark of a true warrior.

Recent Form: Nick Ball vs. Ronny Rios

Ball’s dominant performance against Ronny Rios showcased his key strengths. He relentlessly pressured the experienced Rios, demonstrating exceptional stamina and an unwavering determination to break him down. The 10th-round TKO victory was a testament to Ball’s power and ability to finish a fight, highlighting his incredible work rate and capacity to wear down even seasoned opponents.

TJ Doheny (25-4, 19 KOs), a former IBF super-bantamweight world champion, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He’s fought at the highest level, sharing the ring with world-class opposition. Doheny possesses a solid skillset, good footwork, and a respectable punch. However, he’s also shown vulnerabilities, particularly against fighters who can apply consistent pressure.

Recent Form: TJ Doheny vs. Naoya Inoue

While Doheny showed resilience and landed some body shots, Inoue’s relentless body work took its toll. Doheny, who had previously gone the distance in all his losses, appeared visibly weary and in considerable pain. 16 seconds into the seventh round, he indicated a hip injury, resulting in a technical knockout

This fight is a clash of styles. Ball’s relentless aggression will be the key factor. Doheny, while skilled, has shown a tendency to wilt under sustained pressure. Ball’s ability to close the distance and unleash barrages of punches will test Doheny’s resilience.

Doheny’s experience is a significant advantage. He knows how to navigate the ring, control distance, and exploit openings. However, can he withstand the relentless onslaught that “The Wrecking” Ball will undoubtedly bring? That’s the crucial question.

Winner: Nick “The Wrecking” Ball

Method of Victory: KO/TKO

Ball’s performance against Rios reinforces my prediction of Ball by KO/TKO. His ability to break down an experienced fighter through sheer pressure the biggest factor here. 

While Doheny possesses the experience and skill to make Ball work for it, I think the relentless pressure and power will ultimately prove too much. Ball’s ability to overwhelm opponents with his high-volume attack will force Doheny into a defensive shell. The relentless pressure will break Doheny down, likely getting a stoppage victory in the later rounds, via a ref stoppage, as he overwhelms Doheny with a sustained barrage of punches.