Veteran analyst sees painful end for Paul Butler in showdown vs John Riel Casimero

Respected boxing analyst Ed Tolentino sees a painful ending for Paul Butler when he steps inside the ring to challenge WBO world bantamweight champion John Riel Casimero in a yet to be determined date and venue.

Butler, 32, has been named by the World Boxing Organization as the mandatory challenger to Casimero’s title. The bout went to a purse bid and was won by new promotional outfit Probellum for only $105,000.

“John Riel Casimero is the heavy favorite in this fight. Make no mistake, Butler is a good former world champion, but when you watch his style, it is made for Casimero,” said Tolentino.

“What's negative about Butler is punching power. He throws a lot, but he only scored two knockouts since 2018, and those were against journeymen. He also stands in front of you, throwing his combinations. That is what Casimero wants.”

Tolentino noted that Casimero wanted a big fight with fellow Filipino and WBC world bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr. or IBF and WBA world bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue, but was made to face Butler for a much lower payday.

Come fight night, Tolentino believes that Butler would be on the receiving end of Casimero’s frustrations over the big paydays he missed.

“He is upset because the big fights he wanted against Nonito Donaire Jr. and Naoya Inoue did not happen. His frustrations for a low fight purse he would pour against this unlucky Butler.” Tolentino stated.

“I do not think he will be able to handle the pressure of Casimero. Once he gets a taste of that power, Butler would be forced to a defensive shell, then comes the wrecking ball. I think the fight would be over in round eight.”

—JMB, GMA News