The BKB 49 card in Cardiff is stacked with local talent, but the matchup that has the most breakout potential is the Light Heavyweight clash between Welsh rising star Keiron Harding and the undefeated Scotsman David Winiarski.
This is a massive step up for Harding. He is being positioned as the next big thing out of Wales, but Winiarski is a serious test who could easily spoil the homecoming.
Tale of the Tape
| Statistic | Keiron Harding | David “The Tartan Titan” Winiarski |
| Record | 2-0 (1 KO) | 3-0 (1 KO) |
| Division | Light Heavyweight | Super Middleweight |
| Height | 6’0″ | 6’1″ |
| Home | Cardiff, Wales | Kelty, Scotland |
| Background | Elite Amateur Boxing | BKB & MMA |
| Key Strength | Reach & Pedigree | Fundamentals & Discipline |
The Case for Keiron Harding
Harding has the best pure boxing pedigree on the undercard. A former Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, he has the frame and reach to dominate at this level. When he sits in the “cockpit” and throws long shots without overcommitting, he looks elite.
However, he has a flaw that Winiarski could exploit. Harding gets reckless on his entries. He is willing to trade five shots just to land one of his own. In the Robert Koky fight, he got away with it because of his chin and power, but that “reckless aggression” is a dangerous game to play against a disciplined counter-puncher.
He is at his best when he remembers his amateur roots—staying long, using his feet, and not getting sucked into a brawl.
The Case for David Winiarski
David Winiarski is honestly just an all-around above-average fighter. He doesn’t do anything flashy, but he does everything well. He is 3-0 in the Trigon for a reason.
He keeps the fight down the middle with decent defense and does a good job of not overcommitting to his shots. I really like his hook on the pullback—he waits for you to miss and then tags you while you are off balance. If Harding rushes in with his chin up, Winiarski has the discipline to make him pay.
The Prediction
This is the “Step Up” fight for Harding. The promotion knows they have a potential star in the local Welsh talent, but they matched him tough.
Winiarski is dangerous because he won’t make mistakes. If Harding fights reckless, he loses. But I think the occasion will bring out the best in him. Harding’s reach and superior boxing skills should allow him to control the range.
Expect Harding to trade a bit too much early, get tagged, but eventually settle down to pick Winiarski apart from the outside.
Official Pick: The Welsh crowd carries him home. Keiron Harding wins by Decision.
