World champion Nick Ball claims one physical trait gives him major advantage over opponents

WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball has claimed that his height gives him a distinct advantage against opponents inside the ring. 

Standing at five foot and two inches, Ball is still a relatively small fighter, even if he is campaigning in the lower weight classes.

However, this has not stopped Ball from becoming one of boxing's most energetic and tenacious operators, with his all-action style often gaining plaudits. 

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The Liverpudlian is also not afraid to mix it with those who hold a distinct physical advantage over him. His first world title challenge against then WBC featherweight champion Rey Vargas was a prime example. 

The Mexican was eight inches taller compared to Ball, but the latter caused plenty of problems in a controversial draw which saw Ball register two knockdowns in rounds eight and 11. 

Having to deal with a small stature is something Ball has had to contend with throughout his life, and he explained to DAZN's Carl Frampton why he uses it to his benefit.

"In boxing it’s helped me, everyone’s underestimated me, and I’ve been the underdog in a few fights," Ball said.

"In my career when I first had the chance to get my break, I was the underdog in that fight, overcome it and show that’s not the case."

For a smaller fighter, facing someone with superior physical attributes would be a daunting task, but not for Ball. 

He believes that his particular physique makes him a harder target for his taller and more rangy rivals. 

"I prefer to fight someone tall, rangy. We’re small, compact and harder to hit, less of a target and it works in my favour."

For his next world title defence, which takes place on Saturday live on DAZN PPV, Ball is once again conceding a height advantage. 

Australia's Sam Goodman holds a four and a half inch height advantage over the WBA featherweight champion, but Ball will look to make this count for nothing for Riyadh.

A victory for Ball in the Saudi Arabian capital will open the door for some marquee matchups in the not too distant future, including unification bouts and a dream showdown with the Japanese knockout machine Naoya Inoue. 

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