Shabaz Masoud is "the favourite" to defeat Peter McGrail when the pair meet this weekend in Moncao, according to the former's rival Liam Davies.
The latter returns to action on January 24 when he faces Zak Miller at featherweight on the Magnificent Seven show at Manchester's Co-op Live.
Davies was on track for a world title shot last year at super-bantamweight until Masoud outpointed him in Birmingham to check his momentum.
The star subsequently moved up to defeat Kurt Walker in May, but will be a keen observer when his old opponent takes on Liverpool's McGrail on Saturday.
The battle of skilled operators is almost certain to see the victor push onto world level, and it brings together two quality fighters who are confident they can prevail.
But for Davies, it is his onetime foe that could steal the headlines on the French Riviera, though he admits he would be reluctant to split the two.
"It’s a tough one but I definitely make Masoud the favourite,” the star said during an exclusive chat with DAZN News. "Can Peter win? 100%.
"They’re both very good boxers. I think it will be a points decision either way, but I favour Masoud. I wouldn't put the house on it but it's a very good fight.”
Subscribe to DAZN's new Ultimate Tier to get a minimum of 12 PPV events included per year, including The Ring V and Lopez vs. Stevenson, on top of another 185 fight nights. Plus Serie A football, watch on multiple devices, and many more extra benefits.
Sign up for £22.99 in the UK / $44.99 in the U.S. More details here .