FINNE-CAN DO IT

WE tipped European lightheavyweight titlist Chris Finnegan to see off Jan Lubbers and confirm himself a shot at world champion Bob Foster.

1968 Olympic gold medallist Finnegan had won the European title by defeating Conny Velensek, and had since beaten Jerry Evans and Ron Wilson.

Lubbers was somewhat of an unknown quantity, despite featuring in the 1964 Olympics, but he held a notable win over Velensek. We noted that he could box and brawl, but it was Chris who held the advantages in terms of skill. While Finnegan was capable of moving forward and wearing opponents down, he was at his best when counterpunching.

We picked Finnegan to win on points, but Chris ended up knocking Lubbers out in the eighth round.