Barry Jones has backed Michael Conlan to "dance rings around' new WBA featherweight champion Mauricio Lara.
Mexican heavy-hitter Lara stopped Leigh Wood in Nottingham on Saturday night with a devastating left hook ending the fight in the seventh round.
It has changed the landscape of the featherweight division, one that Belfast boxer Conlan is hoping to stamp his authority on in 2023.
Read more: Michael Conlan next fight plans as brother Jamie offers positive update
Conlan lost out in his first world title bid against Wood last March, and is now eyeing up a big home fight against reigning IBF champion Luis Alberto Lopez on May 27.
Lara is another potential target down the line, and former WBO super-featherweight champion Jones believes Conlan would be too slick for the heavy-handed Mexican.
"I tell you who beats Lara. And people might say 'no, no' because Leigh Wood knocked him out - Michael Conlan," Jones told iD Boxing.
"I honestly think he dances rings round him.
"Conlan can get caught, as we've seen, but he won't hold his feet for a second. And he will spin around Lara.
"Nobody has done it against Lara because nobody has been able to, but Leigh Wood showed he can outbox him. And the difference between Wood and Conlan, and Lara and Conlan, is Wood has a bit of height and reach so he can close the distance a bit better.
"I think those looping punches, I think Conlan would be able to slip and slide underneath them. I think it is a great fight for Conlan."
Conlan Boxing promoter Jamie Conlan also believes his younger brother would get the upper hand against Lara if the pair were to meet.
"I see a lot of things in Lara that Michael could exploit, definitely. The big thing Lara has is the undeniable power," Jamie told Belfast Live.
"But I think he looked worse (against Wood) than he did against Warrington, and he's not fundamentally great.
"And it's a fight I think Michael wins, but he would have to be physically and mentally prepared for it because it would be gruelling, mentally.
"I don't think Wood expected that, having to be on your game because Lara can knock you out at any stage."
Meanwhile, many boxing fans would love to see Conlan vs Lara - and believe the Falls Road man would have too much ring savvy for his opponent.
Replying to Jones' comments, David tweeted: "Yep. That’s the fight I want to see too. Terrific match up."
Stuart said: "I agree, Michael Conlan would put on a boxing masterclass, unify the titles and hopefully fight Leigh Wood again."
Chris agreed, stating: "I believe this also. Just would have to stay away from the power!!"
Darren admitted there was always an element of jeopardy with Conlan, saying: "Could Conlan do it for 12 rounds though without getting hit flush because once that happens it's over IMO."
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