Zimmermann vs Harper Prediction, Picks and Odds for May 23: Bet Over 8.5 Rounds

Betting on boxing is available for Natalie Zimmermann vs Terri Harper, where Harper looks to defend her WBO lightweight belt for the first time on Friday in Doncaster, England.

Top 2 Picks for Zimmermann vs. Harper on May 23

1. Harper by Decision (-150)

Harper might have two losses and two draws on her record, but she’s the -1800 favorite for a reason. The current champion defeated Rhiannon Dixon for the title in Sheffield, and she did it comfortably.

My bets on boxing fights include Harper to win at short odds, but bettors get better value for a decision win. Despite having six wins by knockout on her 15-2-2 record, Harper is unlikely to land a KO blow against the undefeated Zimmermann.

Zimmermann is ranked 22nd in the world, and she’s a 42-year-old German who comes off a fight against a 2-3 fighter. She shouldn’t be in the ring competing for a title, but there is a lack of depth in this division.

I’m banking on her being a tough older fighter, and although she has little chance of winning as a +800 underdog with boxing betting markets, she could hang around until the judges’ scorecards are read.

Oddly, Harper said her opponent can come to England and cause an upset.

“She’s an undefeated fighter; she’s only fought out of Germany a couple of times. It’s going to be a pretty new experience for her. But I feel like she can come over and cause a big upset,” Harper said.

Harper is the much younger and more promising fighter, so I have no doubt she’ll win at skinny odds. There isn’t much value in the -1800 line, but it’s worth including in boxing picks tonight. Take her to win by decision for better odds.

Bet on Terri Harper by Decision (-150)

2. Over 8.5 Rounds (-215)

I’m backing the over in what should go to a decision. I need Zimmermann to show her usual toughness, and although she’s rising in class significantly, she is tough enough to cope with Harper’s pressure.

My boxing predictions today expect a fast-paced fight early on, with Harper doing most of the damage, but as she has shown throughout her career, she gets tired late. She might score enough points in the early rounds to coast in the second half of the fight.

Zimmermann is unlikely to throw much her way, so my boxing prediction sees Harper winning the first 4-5 rounds before taking her foot off the gas.

Bet on Zimmermann vs Harper Over 8.5 Rounds (-215)

Zimmermann vs Harper How to Watch

• Fight: Natalie Zimmermann (13-0) vs Terri Harper (15-2-2)
• Date/Time: Friday, May 23, 2 p.m. ET  
• Location: Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster, UK
• How to Watch: Fubo.tv

Monitor boxing news for any updates in advance of Friday’s fight.

Odds and information are accurate at the time of writing. Please check with official sources for the latest updates before placing any bets.

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