Kid Galahad vs. Kiko Martinez betting odds, preview, and pick

Recently crowned IBF champ Kid Galahad hopes to show out for his hometown fans when he takes on ex-champ Kiko Martinez on Saturday, Nov. 13 at Utilita Arena Sheffield.

Let's examine this eagerly anticipated bout, beginning with the latest betting odds.

The champ comes home

Galahad made his second shot at a world title count when he knocked out rival Jazza Dickens in the 11th round last August. He was exceptionally sharp in picking apart Dickens with his hand speed and punch selection, drawing his second straight corner stoppage in as many fights.

As Galahad looks to factor into the stacked featherweight division, he’s heading home for his first title defense. There was a time when Martinez was a worthy challenger, but he’s here for this fight to make Galahad look good.

Martinez has a lot of miles

Martinez is a durable veteran who has been around, but he hasn’t won a major fight in eight years. He beat the unheralded Jayro Duran in a stay-busy fight in September, but hasn’t maintained any momentum since his second loss to Carl Frampton back in 2014.

At his best, Martinez was a big puncher who could close the distance quickly and deal a lot of damage. Nowadays, he’s been a jobber to the stars, as his defeats have stood out more than his victories.

Galahad will stop Martinez

Galahad is a good fighter in the prime of his career, whereas Martinez is past his own. The mere notion of Martinez getting this fight was a bit of a shock, but he’s the perfect candidate for Galahad’s first defense. He’s slower now, easier to hit, and not remotely savvy enough to exploit any issues with Galahad’s style.

All indications point to a wipe out. Martinez has been abysmal against other top-tier featherweights in the past, and while Galahad is no Leo Santa Cruz or Gary Russell Jr., this trend should continue on Saturday night.

From the moment the opening bell rings, Galahad won’t take long to realize he has an overwhelming advantage in speed and power. While Martinez will press hard early, Galahad will pin him against the ropes and stop him with the first solid combination he lands. Expect Galahad to win easily and early.

Boxing free pick: Galahad