This Saturday, boxing betting fans will be treated to what is unquestionably the best fight card of the year. Sure, the majority of those examining boxing odds will be looking at the headlining Floyd Mayweather vs. Juan Manuel Marquez showdown, however the undercard is shaping up to be a possible show stealer.

Below Mayweather-Marquez on the bill is the highly anticipated rematch between Chris John and Rocky Juarez for the WBA super world featherweight title. Despite a questionable decision in Juarez’s hometown that scored the bout a draw, the first installment in the John-Juarez series was a fast-paced, exciting one.

But if fight fans truly want a fast-paced war with a tremendous amount on the line, they should keep their eyes glued during the undercard as Michael Katsidis takes on Vicente Escobedo. The two will square off for the interim WBO lightweight strap, an honor earned when both men scored victories during the Golden Boy Promotions Lightweight Lightning card earlier this year.

There are certain fights that, when listed on paper, can immediately be deemed an exciting one, and this title bout falls into that category. Those who have bet on boxing or viewed a Katsidis fight in the past are aware that he provides fireworks every time he steps through the ropes. The Australian warrior turned in a classic performance against Joel Casamayor in 2008, and a cult classic against Graham Earl to win the WBO lightweight title in 2007.

Katsidis will never be mistaken for a defensive genius, but his willingness to accept punishment and his determination to dish it out seldom make for a mediocre event.

Luckily for those betting on boxing, his opponent on Saturday, Vicente Escobedo, largely has the same mindset when it comes to the “sweet science.” Escobedo has run through hand-picked opposition with ruthless aggression, but relative ease. The California native has never fought in a 12-round bout, and his biggest test came against an over-the-hill and overweight Kevin Kelley (best known for his war with Prince Naseem Hamed and loss to Marco Antonio Barrera).

However, a lack of experience on Escobedo’s part could mean increased aggression, energy, and hunger to go for the knockout.

Adding to the motivation is the fact that if Marquez loses to Mayweather, the WBO has mandated that he face the winner of this contest. As we all know in boxing, sometimes “big” fights can mean more than titles, and a fight with the Mexican superstar would be a career-maker for either one of the combatants.

Regardless of your boxing picks, sit back and be amazed by what these two men will put themselves through for however long this one lasts. One can be assured that despite the length, it will be one to remember.

To make this one a bit more interesting, bet on the veteran Katsidis, the favorite on boxing odds, to win by stoppage!