On February 23, rising British heavyweight David Price (15-0, 13 KOs) will tangle with veteran American southpaw Tony Thompson (36-3, 24 KOs) at the Echo Arena in Liverpool, England.

Their size (6’8” and 6’5”) and bulk (over 250 pounds apiece) are reminders of how different the heavyweight division is today.

While Price, 29, is on the fast track to a shot at heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitchko, Thompson, 41, needs a win to stay relevant. His listless performance against Klistchko last July was widely criticized. Thompson readily admits that he can’t afford another loss.

“This is my last chance saloon, but I don’t have to say that,” Thompson said. The only way I can change that is to win.

“I started boxing as a club fighter, but I am not going to finish my career that way. The fire is still there because I find it hard coming to grips knowing that if I lose to Price I have to quit. To stay on this big stage, I have to beat big time boxers like Price.”

Taking on Thompson could backfire on Price if the old warhorse has something left. A win though would carry a certain amount of prestige. Thompson has lost two fights in the past 12 years, both to Klitschko.

Thompson can box and bang. He’s awkward and hard to look good against. He’s done well against top 20 fighters, but failed in his two attempts at the heavyweight crown.

Price has participated in a paltry 15 pro bouts. In 2012, he knocked out John McDermott, Sam Sexton, Audley Harrison and Matt Skelton. None of these fighters are ranked in the top ten. Still, the power of Price intrigues. He wants to show that his talent matches his size.

It says here that Thompson has more ability than anyone Price has faced. If he’s motivated to win, he might surprise.

Price has a lot to prove. It’s clear he wants to knockout Thompson faster than Klitschko did. (six rounds). Many think that Price is the next big thing in the heavyweight division. His time is now (if ever). Price has some pop in his right hand. Thompson should be aware of this. Fighting as a southpaw, he'll likely see a maximum amount of lead right hands.

The fight will start slowly. Thompson needs to jab and stay away. Price will bring some respect into the ring, but eventually he’s going to let his right hand fly. Thompson's movement will slow by the middle rounds. Price will find a home for his right and left. Thompson will wish he was sitting at home after eating more punches. Price will overcome a few green moments to stop Thompson in round seven.