Both fighters favor counter-punching, but had to adjust their natural styles in the opening round of the WBC Grand Prix.

Eric Basran boxed against a mobile opponent in Johnson, resulting in a distance-based tactical battle resembling fencing. Basran thrives in these conditions—he feints, lures his opponent into throwing, and then counters with sharp, timed punches.

Daniil Lozan, typically a counter-fighter as well, had to abandon his style against Ashmatov. The Kazakh didn’t allow for clean setups, forcing Lozan to step forward behind a tight guard, close the distance, and unleash heavy pressure to earn the win.

Lozan is four years younger at 22, yet his resume looks slightly deeper. Basran’s most notable win was over Jorge Luis Rodriguez in the first round of the tournament, with other opponents offering limited resistance.

Lozan, by contrast, has faced more battle-tested opposition, including Artem Ayvazidi (who fought ex-champs Fedchenko and Postol), Ronan Nahuel Sanchez, and Andrii Boryshpolets. His last fight in particular forced him to reveal new dimensions of his game.

The contrast here is dramatic. Lozan threw 567 punches in 6 rounds in the opening round. Basran threw only 220.

Accuracy was close: 16% for Lozan vs. 15% for Basran.

These stats reflect opponent styles—Basran’s bout was a chess match, while Lozan’s was a slugfest. Still, Lozan’s ability to adapt and escalate volume when needed could be a decisive edge if the tempo increases.

The first tournament round was two months ago. Lozan endured a physically taxing brawl, but appears fully recovered. Basran had a more cerebral than physical contest, so should also enter in peak condition.

Neither fighter is known for knockout power.

Lozan’s stoppage rate is just over 60%. Basran’s is just above 30%.

Basran’s strengths are speed and precision. Lozan, meanwhile, is effective with well-placed body shots, which may be key against Basran’s mobility.

Both are undefeated and have shown the ability to absorb shots. Lozan took a heavy blow early in his last fight but weathered it and came back strong. No significant durability concerns on either side.

Both fighters have experience competing in Saudi Arabia during this tournament. No major advantage here in terms of venue, judging, or crowd bias.

Both fighters are fighting for more than just a win—a semifinal slot, potential exposure in Riyadh Season events, and inclusion in TKO promotions are on the line.

But with only six rounds to work with, success may hinge less on talent and more on adaptability, discipline, and the ability to execute a gameplan under pressure.

Lozan’s proven ability to shift styles mid-fight gives him an edge in flexibility, while Basran’s precision and timing make him a threat in a more tactical scenario. Expect a battle of adjustments.