Whyte vs Browne: Full preview to heavyweight battle, live on Sky Sports
Saturday 24 March 2018 21:13, UK
Everything you need to know about Dillian Whyte’s heavyweight fight against Lucas Browne, live on Saturday from 7.30pm on Main Event.
Background
Whyte has been searching for an opponent dangerous enough whereby a win would propel him into the world title mix. He's found one.
Australia's Browne is unbeaten in 25, and was set to challenge Joseph Parker until the WBO champion agreed to fight Anthony Joshua. Browne won the WBA 'regular' belt in 2016 by knocking out Ruslan Chagaev, his standout result, but two failed drug tests since then have tarred his reputation.
He is a big enough puncher to trouble London's Whyte who is a fitter, more disciplined technician since he lost a 2015 brawl with Joshua (his only defeat).
Uncomplimentary words have been exchanged by Whyte and Browne in the build-up which could cause fireworks when the first bell rings.
Live Fight Night
The bigger picture
The conclusion to the world heavyweight title unification fight next weekend between Joshua and Parker, live on Sky Sports Box Office, should provide more clarity to the Whyte-Browne winner.
Whyte has long been campaigning for a crack at WBC champion Deontay Wilder. He is currently listed at No 1 in that organisation's rankings, and beating Browne should confirm him as Wilder's mandatory challenger.
The ultimate goal for Whyte is to earn his shot at Wilder, win the WBC belt, then rematch his bitter rival Joshua with all four major titles on the line.
What the fighters say
I've got the skill, speed and power. People forget, but I've got power. I can knock people out.
Physically, he's a big boy with a long reach and good work rate. He will bring that, but can he keep up with my pace and power?
What the rivals say
[Whyte] wants to become a heavyweight champion so when we meet again it is massive.
We know Lucas Browne has got a power punch. If someone is going to get knocked out, Dillian will get knocked out.
What the experts say
I can see Whyte being in charge and, given the age and experience advantages he has, I think we could see him see Browne off with a late stoppage.
Whyte isn't a one-shot heavy hitter so I don't see him knocking Browne out, but he does have heart
Essential reading
The weigh-in
Whyte (18st 2lbs 2oz) - Browne (18st 11lbs 2oz)
Watch Dillian Whyte against Lucas Browne, on Saturday, March 24 at The O2, live from 7pm on Sky Sports Action.
