Nick Ball is set to defend his WBA featherweight world title tonight as he faces off against Ronny Rios at the MandS Bank Arena in Liverpool.
The 27-year-old hometown hero currently boasts a 21 fight unbeaten streak, including 20 victories over top-tier opponents such as Jesus Ramirez Rubio, Isaac Dogboe and Ludumo Lamati, along with a single draw against Rey Vargas earlier this year. Despite only recently securing the featherweight belt this summer – defeating Raymond Ford via split decision in June – Ball will need to overcome a formidable Rios tonight if he wishes to retain it.
Rios has built up an impressive professional boxing record of 34-4, with 17 knockouts under his belt. Even though he’s seven years Ball’s senior, the American has proven that he still possesses swift hands and remarkable power in the ring, achieving a fifth-round knockout over Nicolas Polanko in April.
As we anticipate a thrilling clash between Liverpool’s own Ball and the all-American Rios tonight, the DailyRecord provides a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about the bout – from when the ring walk starts to how you can tune in from home….
What time does Nick Ball vs Ronny Rios start in the UK?
The UKs excitement mounts as the event gears up to commence on TV at 7pm, with a thrilling undercard preceding the main spectacle. In an eagerly anticipated clash, Jack Rafferty and Henry Turner will vie for the vacant British super lightweight title.
Additionally, Scouser Andrew Cain is set to go glove-to-glove with Lazaro Casseres in the bantamweight category. A line-up of English boxing prospects are queued to showcase their skills tonight, including Tyson Fury’s cousin, Walter Fury, sporting a bright 1-0 record, alongside Brad Strand, Jack Turner, and Dale Arrowsmith. Ball and Rios are expected to make their ring walks at around 10pm at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena.
How to watch the fight
TNT Sports in the UK has secured the broadcast rights for the WBA featherweight title match and US audiences can catch the action via ESPN+. Tickets remain on offer, starting from £59.25, available at Ticket Quarter.
The full fight card
- Nick Ball vs. Ronny Rios (WBA featherweight title)
- Jack Rafferty vs. Henry Turner (British super lightweight title)
- Andrew Cain vs. Lazaro Casseres
- Jadier Herrera vs. Oliver Flores
- James McGivern vs. Reuquen Cona Facundo Arce
- Brad Strand vs. Marvin Solano
- Jack Turner vs. Gonzalo Corinaldesi
- Boma Brown vs. Amine Boucetta
- Lucas Biswana vs. Jakub Laskowski
- Walter Fury vs. Dale Arrowsmith
- Joe Cooper vs. Lukasz Barabasz
Quotes corner
Nick Ball: “The way I fight, that can force stoppages you know? I’ve got power, I can knock people out 100 per cent, yeah. But at the same time, I’m ready for 15, 20 rounds. Whatever it may be, that belt is staying where it is.”
Ronny Rios: “I’ve gotta do whatever I’ve gotta do to bring that belt back. I know he’s gonna fight for it, so am I. October fifth is going to be a fight for the fans. I know you come to fight, I come to fight – all the handshakes and everything goes out the window once that bell rings.”