New Year's Eve goes out with a bang in Japan with 5 title fights, the smallest, in terms of weight, sees unbeaten Japanese fighter Ryo Miyazaki (17-0-3, 10) facing former champion Pornsawan Porpramook (27-4-1, 17) for the now vacant WBA Minimumweight title (which has been vacated due to Kazuto Ioka moving to Light Flyweight). This bout promises nothing but excitement as Miyazaki looks to show he's the next in a very long line of world class Minimumweight's from Japan whilst Porpramook looks to become a 2-time world champion.
The 34 year old Porpramook may not be hugely well known by fight fans in the west though he has proven himself to be a solid world level fighter over the past few years. He's been a professional since 2001 and has been fighting for titles since just his second fight (he claimed the PABA Minimumweight title in his second professional bout). In fact since 2007 Porpramook has been fighting, on and off, at world level.
In his first attempt to claim a world title in 2007 Porpramook came up short against the hugely talented Filipino Donnie Nietes in a bout that was close and hard fought by both men. The following year Porpramook would again fall short, that time again Oleydong Sithsamerchai. In 2009 the Thai would again fall short, being stopped by Edgar Sosa in a Light Flyweight title fight before scoring an unlucky draw with Sithsamerchai in 2010. For Porpramook it was fifth time lucky in 2011 as he out pointed the legendary Muhammad Rachman for the WBA Minimumweight title.
Sadly Porpramook's title reign was short lived as Akira Yaegashi stopped him in a 10 round war just 3 months after Porpramook had eventually won a world title. He now goes back to Japan to seek revenge for the loss of his title and get revenge over Japanese fighters.
In terms of his style Porpramook is a tough fighter, whilst he has been stopped twice he proved his genuine toughness in both of those bouts and he proved he is genuine all action and exciting. He's never let a fighter really have their way with him other than Oleydong in their first meeting.
Whilst Porpramook is certainly part of the "last generation", the 24 year old Miyazaki is part of the new generation of fighters who are swiftly emerging, especially in Japan (along with the likes of Ioka amongst others). Despite being just 24 Miyazaki is experienced and seasoned with 20 professional bouts and 115 rounds under his belt, many of which have been fought at title level with Miyazaki having already claimed both the Japanese and the OPBF Light Flyweight titles.
Although having made his name at Light Flyweight, the rock solid looking Miyazaki is a natural Minimumweight. Stood at just 5'1 he's a true warrior facing bigger men than himself to toughen up before getting world title fights and whilst things haven't always gone to plan (with 3 technical draws on his record due to head clashes) he's proven to be able to hang with naturally bigger men.
For me the youth of Miyazaki as well as the wear and tear of Porpramook are likely the difference here. This could well be the best fight of the 5 world title fights that take place in Japan on New Years Eve with both men giving it their all, though I just think Miyazaki will be a little bit too fresh for the Thai warrior.
Prediction- Miyazaki TKO11
Sunday 30 December 2012
Tepparith Kokietgym v Kohei Kono
WBA Super Flyweight champion Tepparith Kokietgym (21-2, 13) made 2011 a break out year as he claimed notable wins over Drian Francisco and Daiki Kameda. Since then the little Thai has been continued to make his name thanks to notable victories over top Japanese fighters Tomonobu Shimizu and Nobuo Nashiro. He will return to Japan once again as he face former 2 time title challenger Kohei Kono (27-7, 10).
Whilst it's true that Tepparith, a talented boxer, did struggle last time out with Japanese hard man Nashiro, that was more due to Tepparith being brought in to a brawl rather than a boxing contest. When the 24 year old "Astro Boy" is allowed to box and control the pace and distance of the fight he is exceptional using his jab as well as solid work rate. If he's forced to brawl however he can be out powered at times and, as we saw against Nashiro, can be forced out of his comfortable rhythm.
Although not a massive puncher Tepparith is capableof landing hard, hurtful shots, such as the shots that stopped Shimizu earlier this year (in what is notable Tepparith's only stoppage on the world level). Against a tough fighter, like Nashiro, this wasn't enough to establish the range, though not many fighters are as tough as Nashiro, unfortunately for Tepparith, Kono is.
Like Nashiro, Kono is a genuine Japanese hard man. Despite suffering 7 losses in 34 fights Kono has never been stopped and has hardly ever looked hurt despite facing some great opponents including the aforementioned Nashiro, former world champion Tomas Rojas, and current world champion Yota Sato. As well as those losses, he has only lost 1 other bout in the last 7 years, an 8 round decision to the highly regarded prospect Yohei Tobe.
For Tepparith it's the victory by Tobe that should really be the battle plan to use. Tobe used his speed, jab and movement to keep Kono away and although Tobe is a taller fighter than Tepparith the Thai has the class and ability to follow that sort of game plan. I don't think Kono will just take the loss but I think Tepparith will show the difference in class.
Prediction-Tepparith UD12
Whilst it's true that Tepparith, a talented boxer, did struggle last time out with Japanese hard man Nashiro, that was more due to Tepparith being brought in to a brawl rather than a boxing contest. When the 24 year old "Astro Boy" is allowed to box and control the pace and distance of the fight he is exceptional using his jab as well as solid work rate. If he's forced to brawl however he can be out powered at times and, as we saw against Nashiro, can be forced out of his comfortable rhythm.
Although not a massive puncher Tepparith is capableof landing hard, hurtful shots, such as the shots that stopped Shimizu earlier this year (in what is notable Tepparith's only stoppage on the world level). Against a tough fighter, like Nashiro, this wasn't enough to establish the range, though not many fighters are as tough as Nashiro, unfortunately for Tepparith, Kono is.
Like Nashiro, Kono is a genuine Japanese hard man. Despite suffering 7 losses in 34 fights Kono has never been stopped and has hardly ever looked hurt despite facing some great opponents including the aforementioned Nashiro, former world champion Tomas Rojas, and current world champion Yota Sato. As well as those losses, he has only lost 1 other bout in the last 7 years, an 8 round decision to the highly regarded prospect Yohei Tobe.
For Tepparith it's the victory by Tobe that should really be the battle plan to use. Tobe used his speed, jab and movement to keep Kono away and although Tobe is a taller fighter than Tepparith the Thai has the class and ability to follow that sort of game plan. I don't think Kono will just take the loss but I think Tepparith will show the difference in class.
Prediction-Tepparith UD12
Yota Sato v Ryo Akaho
All the eyes of the boxing world will
be pointing towards Japan this New Years Eve with the country hosting
5 world title fights. Of those fights we have just a solitary all
Japanese fight as WBC Super Flyweight champion Yota Sato (25-2-1, 12)
attempt to make the second defense of his title as he faces
countryman Ryo Akaho (19-0-2, 12).
Sato emerged as one of the top Japanese fighters back in 2010 when he stopped Go Onaga for the interim Japanese Super Flyweight title, a title that would later be upgraded to the full version of the belt. As the Japanese Super Flyweight champion Sato was impressive defeating the likes of Kohei Kono (who faces Tepparith Kokietgym on the same card) and the previously unbeaten Kenji Oba. He moved in to the world elite earlier this year as he defeated highly regarded Thai Suriyan Sor Rungvisai for the WBC title, dropping Rungvisai twice.
Since winning the world title Sato has defended it once out pointing the under-rated Filipino Sylvester Lopez though will now need to show his skill to end a year on a high against the very talented Akaho (who I will get on to in a minute). In terms of ability Sato is perhaps “the best fighter you've never seen” with excellent boxing, great speed and under-rated power (just ask Suriyan). The biggest issue is perhaps his inexperience over 12 rounds, a distance he has only done twice in his 28 fight career.
As well his ability Sato will be very confident having been unbeaten since 2005 with both of his losses coming in his first 7 professional contests (and they were both razor thin losses to more experienced fighters). Also, interestingly, the 28 year old is tall for a Super Flyweight at 5'7” and arguably he is in his physical prime. It's fair to say that whilst he may not have a punchers record he's grown into his power and knows how to use his size wonderfully well.
Whilst Sato is regarded by hardcore fans as one of the elite at Super Flyweight Ryo Akaho is much lesser known despite also being unbeaten since 2005 (the year in which he debuted). Akaho, sadly, lacks the notable names (such as Kono, Suriyan and Lopez) on his record however he has been fighting at national and continental title level for a few himself having drawn in a Japanese title fight back in 2009.
Despite failing to claim a title in his first title fight, Akaho has since gone on to claim the OPBF Super Flyweight title, a title that he has defended 4 times, with the most recent of those defense coming against super prospect Yohei Tobe (who was forced in to the fight a few bouts too early). Sadly for Akaho his best opponent was Daigo Nakahiro, the fight he drew with in his failed attempt at the Japanese Super Flyweight title (interestingly Nakahiro was beaten in his very next fight by Sato).
For Akaho this is a great chance and he will, like Sato, go in to this fight with a lot of confidence sadly however his limited competition worries me somewhat, especially having seen how good Sato is. I think that the level of the fighters will be obvious here and Sato will take a wide decision in a thoroughly engaging fight. Akaho will try hard but Sato's speed and jab will keep him out of range for long portions of the bout. At just 26 years old however I imagine that Akaho will come again.
Prediction-Sato UD12
Sato emerged as one of the top Japanese fighters back in 2010 when he stopped Go Onaga for the interim Japanese Super Flyweight title, a title that would later be upgraded to the full version of the belt. As the Japanese Super Flyweight champion Sato was impressive defeating the likes of Kohei Kono (who faces Tepparith Kokietgym on the same card) and the previously unbeaten Kenji Oba. He moved in to the world elite earlier this year as he defeated highly regarded Thai Suriyan Sor Rungvisai for the WBC title, dropping Rungvisai twice.
Since winning the world title Sato has defended it once out pointing the under-rated Filipino Sylvester Lopez though will now need to show his skill to end a year on a high against the very talented Akaho (who I will get on to in a minute). In terms of ability Sato is perhaps “the best fighter you've never seen” with excellent boxing, great speed and under-rated power (just ask Suriyan). The biggest issue is perhaps his inexperience over 12 rounds, a distance he has only done twice in his 28 fight career.
As well his ability Sato will be very confident having been unbeaten since 2005 with both of his losses coming in his first 7 professional contests (and they were both razor thin losses to more experienced fighters). Also, interestingly, the 28 year old is tall for a Super Flyweight at 5'7” and arguably he is in his physical prime. It's fair to say that whilst he may not have a punchers record he's grown into his power and knows how to use his size wonderfully well.
Whilst Sato is regarded by hardcore fans as one of the elite at Super Flyweight Ryo Akaho is much lesser known despite also being unbeaten since 2005 (the year in which he debuted). Akaho, sadly, lacks the notable names (such as Kono, Suriyan and Lopez) on his record however he has been fighting at national and continental title level for a few himself having drawn in a Japanese title fight back in 2009.
Despite failing to claim a title in his first title fight, Akaho has since gone on to claim the OPBF Super Flyweight title, a title that he has defended 4 times, with the most recent of those defense coming against super prospect Yohei Tobe (who was forced in to the fight a few bouts too early). Sadly for Akaho his best opponent was Daigo Nakahiro, the fight he drew with in his failed attempt at the Japanese Super Flyweight title (interestingly Nakahiro was beaten in his very next fight by Sato).
For Akaho this is a great chance and he will, like Sato, go in to this fight with a lot of confidence sadly however his limited competition worries me somewhat, especially having seen how good Sato is. I think that the level of the fighters will be obvious here and Sato will take a wide decision in a thoroughly engaging fight. Akaho will try hard but Sato's speed and jab will keep him out of range for long portions of the bout. At just 26 years old however I imagine that Akaho will come again.
Prediction-Sato UD12
Takashi Uchiyama v Bryan Vasquez
In the western world boxing seems to
take a break over the Christmas and New Year period however in Japan
New Year is a whole different ball game with an amazing 5 world title
fights all on the New Years Eve. For me personally the stand out of
those fights is the WBA Featherweight bout between regular champion
Takashi Uchiyama (18-0-1, 15) and former interim champion Bryan
Vasquez (29-0, 15).
Of the two fighters it's the Japanese champion who is much higher regarded than the challenger with some regarding him as one of the hardest punchers pound-for-pound in the sport. Although aged 33 Uchiyama is actually a very young 33 with just 118 rounds under his belt (around 6 rounds a fight) thanks to his fearsome power which has seen him move in to the top spot at 130lbs.
Whilst not well known in the west Uchiyama has a very respectable record with victories over proven world class fighters such as Juan Carlos Salgado and Jorge Solis as well as solid rivals like Takashi Miura and Roy Mukhlis. Though maybe the most telling thing on his record in regards to his up coming fight is the 3rd round technical draw he suffered last time out at the hands of tough Filipino Michael Farenas, who recently gave Yuriorkis Gamboa a tougher than expected bout. That bout saw a clash of heads opening up a nasty cut around Uchiyama's eye that may not have fully healed.
As well as being hard hitting Uchiyama is also very fun to watch. He's not the slickest and he can be drawn in to a tear up, however with his power he always has the ability to end the fight at any moment, a trait that everyone at 130lbs needs to be fully aware of.
Whilst we know enough about Uchiyama to make an opinion that he's a top guy at the weight, we really don't know a lot about Costa Rican Bryan Vasquez who despite his long unbeaten record really hasn't faced anyone of note. In fact the best victory on the record of the 25 year old challenger came last time out against Jorge Lacierva who had previously challenger for silverware way down at 115lbs.
Despite not being really known about, Vasquez has actually looked like a “decent” fighter with good all round skills and respectable speed, though his lack of power is a trait that does stand out as being a key weakness. Although his record is littered with opening round wins (7) they have come at a very low level with no noteworthy stoppages other than the one against Lacierva (who interestingly had only been stopped once in his previous 55 bouts). This will be a real problem again Uchiyama who will try to establish his type of fight and try to land his booming shots.
For me the class and power difference as well as home field advantage should be far more than enough to see a clear winner. I imagine Vasquez will be game but out classed in the early rounds before fading in the second half and getting stopping by Uchiyama's very hurtful power.
Prediction-Uchiyama TKO8
Of the two fighters it's the Japanese champion who is much higher regarded than the challenger with some regarding him as one of the hardest punchers pound-for-pound in the sport. Although aged 33 Uchiyama is actually a very young 33 with just 118 rounds under his belt (around 6 rounds a fight) thanks to his fearsome power which has seen him move in to the top spot at 130lbs.
Whilst not well known in the west Uchiyama has a very respectable record with victories over proven world class fighters such as Juan Carlos Salgado and Jorge Solis as well as solid rivals like Takashi Miura and Roy Mukhlis. Though maybe the most telling thing on his record in regards to his up coming fight is the 3rd round technical draw he suffered last time out at the hands of tough Filipino Michael Farenas, who recently gave Yuriorkis Gamboa a tougher than expected bout. That bout saw a clash of heads opening up a nasty cut around Uchiyama's eye that may not have fully healed.
As well as being hard hitting Uchiyama is also very fun to watch. He's not the slickest and he can be drawn in to a tear up, however with his power he always has the ability to end the fight at any moment, a trait that everyone at 130lbs needs to be fully aware of.
Whilst we know enough about Uchiyama to make an opinion that he's a top guy at the weight, we really don't know a lot about Costa Rican Bryan Vasquez who despite his long unbeaten record really hasn't faced anyone of note. In fact the best victory on the record of the 25 year old challenger came last time out against Jorge Lacierva who had previously challenger for silverware way down at 115lbs.
Despite not being really known about, Vasquez has actually looked like a “decent” fighter with good all round skills and respectable speed, though his lack of power is a trait that does stand out as being a key weakness. Although his record is littered with opening round wins (7) they have come at a very low level with no noteworthy stoppages other than the one against Lacierva (who interestingly had only been stopped once in his previous 55 bouts). This will be a real problem again Uchiyama who will try to establish his type of fight and try to land his booming shots.
For me the class and power difference as well as home field advantage should be far more than enough to see a clear winner. I imagine Vasquez will be game but out classed in the early rounds before fading in the second half and getting stopping by Uchiyama's very hurtful power.
Prediction-Uchiyama TKO8
Kazuto Ioka v Jose Alfredo Rodriguez
One of the final world title fights this year sees talented Japanese youngster Kazuto Ioka (10-0, 6) attempt to claim a second division world title as he tries to claim the vacant WBA Light Flyweight title against once beaten Mexican Jose Alfredo Rodriguez (28-1, 17). This is a fight all lower weight fans should be hugely excited by with both men looking to really fill the void of Roman Gonzalez who has vacated the title to campaign at Flyweight from next year.
For me personally the clear favourite is Ioka who, despite going up in weight, is a special talent as he proved earlier this year by unifying the WBA and WBC Minimumweight titles as he defeated fellow Japanese warrior Akira Yaegashi in an all out war. Though the win over Yaegashi is the standout win on his record, Ioka also holds wins over Oleydong Sithsamerchai, Juan Hernandez and Masayoshi Segawa, not bad for a guy with just 10 professional bouts under his belt.
Ioka's move to Light Flyweight always looked to be on the cards as the 5'4" 23 year old has simply out grown the 105lb weight division and he looked noticeably drained late in the fight with Yaegashi. At 108lbs I'd hope that Ioka's growing body has filled out with out too many negative effects to his speed as he's a fast, accurate boxer-puncher who can trade as well as box. At his best however I'd say he's a better boxer than puncher and his key punches are the jab and straight, though he does throw some lovely shots to the body as Oleydong found out.
Whilst I could wax lyrical about Ioka I find it much harder to be as complimentary about Rodriguez who despite having an excellent looking record has faced much lesser opponents than Ioka. In fact the best opponents Rodriguez has faced have been Karluis Diaz, Nethra Sasiprapa and current WBA interim champion Alberto Rossel, with his only loss so far coming to Rossel.
Like Ioka, Rodriguez is a growing youngster, in fact Rodriguez despite his huge edge in professional experience, is actually the younger man at just 23 years old. Sadly for him however he lacks the long amateur experience that Ioka has and he also lacks much in terms of international experience having only fought out of Mexico twice, including his loss to Rossel and a split decision victory in Japan over Sho Nakazawa.
Interestingly both men have only fought once this year, with Ioka's win over Yaegashi and Rodriguez's loss to Rossel being their only other action in 2012. I don't think this will play too much of a factor though if it does I'd guess it's more likely to effect Rodriguez who is with out a win in over a year.
I feel that Ioka's excellent amateur school and home field advantage will see him through to a clear win here. I'd fancy him to perhaps look for a stoppage late though thoroughly dominate the fight regardless of stopping Rodriguez who has never been stopped.
Prediction-Ioka TKO 11
For me personally the clear favourite is Ioka who, despite going up in weight, is a special talent as he proved earlier this year by unifying the WBA and WBC Minimumweight titles as he defeated fellow Japanese warrior Akira Yaegashi in an all out war. Though the win over Yaegashi is the standout win on his record, Ioka also holds wins over Oleydong Sithsamerchai, Juan Hernandez and Masayoshi Segawa, not bad for a guy with just 10 professional bouts under his belt.
Ioka's move to Light Flyweight always looked to be on the cards as the 5'4" 23 year old has simply out grown the 105lb weight division and he looked noticeably drained late in the fight with Yaegashi. At 108lbs I'd hope that Ioka's growing body has filled out with out too many negative effects to his speed as he's a fast, accurate boxer-puncher who can trade as well as box. At his best however I'd say he's a better boxer than puncher and his key punches are the jab and straight, though he does throw some lovely shots to the body as Oleydong found out.
Whilst I could wax lyrical about Ioka I find it much harder to be as complimentary about Rodriguez who despite having an excellent looking record has faced much lesser opponents than Ioka. In fact the best opponents Rodriguez has faced have been Karluis Diaz, Nethra Sasiprapa and current WBA interim champion Alberto Rossel, with his only loss so far coming to Rossel.
Like Ioka, Rodriguez is a growing youngster, in fact Rodriguez despite his huge edge in professional experience, is actually the younger man at just 23 years old. Sadly for him however he lacks the long amateur experience that Ioka has and he also lacks much in terms of international experience having only fought out of Mexico twice, including his loss to Rossel and a split decision victory in Japan over Sho Nakazawa.
Interestingly both men have only fought once this year, with Ioka's win over Yaegashi and Rodriguez's loss to Rossel being their only other action in 2012. I don't think this will play too much of a factor though if it does I'd guess it's more likely to effect Rodriguez who is with out a win in over a year.
I feel that Ioka's excellent amateur school and home field advantage will see him through to a clear win here. I'd fancy him to perhaps look for a stoppage late though thoroughly dominate the fight regardless of stopping Rodriguez who has never been stopped.
Prediction-Ioka TKO 11
Monday 17 December 2012
Denis Lebedev v Santander Silgado
Exciting Russian Cruiserweight Denis Lebedev (24-1, 18) makes the first defense of his WBA title later today as he faced unbeaten power puncher Santander Silgado (23-0, 18) in a bout that promises fireworks. Despite this bout generally being one that has gone under-the-radar I'm certainly expecting a very fun to watch bout that really could be over if you blink.
The hard hitting Lebedev got upgraded from the interim champion just a few months ago after Panamanian Guillermo Jones was eventually stripped by the WBA who had seemingly gotten bored of his antics (including pulling out of fights on a regular basis).
For many fans of the sport the Cruiserweight division has slowly become one of the top divisions in the sport thanks to the combination of exciting fights and fun to watch fighters such as Yoan Pablo Hernandez, Marco Huck and Lebedev. In fact many fan of the sport consider Lebedev to be the best of the bunch with his only loss being a very highly debated decision loss to Huck in a bout that most felt the Russian has won.
Lebedev combines genuine toughness with both power and skill. He's not the quickest guy in the division or even the biggest but his all round ability and genuinely hurtful shots have made him his name. What has also helped has been his notable scalps including former WBO champion Enzo Maccarinelli, once top amateur Alexander Alekseev and American legends Roy Jones Jr and James Toney (both admittedly well beyond their sell by date).
Despite being 33 years old Lebedev is a young 33 with just 132 rounds under his belt though a lot of this has to do with his power which is genuinely devastating. He can score stoppages both with stunning 1-punch KO power or by grinding opponents down which helps make him a dangerous fighter, every punch he lands hurts.
With plenty known about how good Lebedev is, the real question about this fight is just how good is Santander Silgado? The American based Colombian has a very similar looking record to Lebedev with a actually a higher KO% though though sadly these have been coming at a much lower level, with Silgado actually struggling when he has stepped up to face some more established fighters. Interestingly the Colombian has had to go the distance in his last 3 fights, all in the US against limited opponents.
Sadly, as we all know with Colombians it's hard to really judge just how powerful they actually are due to inflated records from fighting at home. Oddly with Silgado we've actually seen him fighting around the world (having fought in Colombia, Argentina, Dominican Republic, Germany and the USA) however he does have a 10-0 (10) record in Colombia, as opposed to the 13-0 (8) away from the land of his birth.
If Silgado goes in to this thinking he's the puncher he'll be wrong, if he thinks he's the boxer I'd again guess that he'd be wrong. Lebedev is just better in every which way and I'd be shocked if Silgado manages to do much other than get sparked out with a KO of the year contender.
Prediction-Lebedev KO5
The hard hitting Lebedev got upgraded from the interim champion just a few months ago after Panamanian Guillermo Jones was eventually stripped by the WBA who had seemingly gotten bored of his antics (including pulling out of fights on a regular basis).
For many fans of the sport the Cruiserweight division has slowly become one of the top divisions in the sport thanks to the combination of exciting fights and fun to watch fighters such as Yoan Pablo Hernandez, Marco Huck and Lebedev. In fact many fan of the sport consider Lebedev to be the best of the bunch with his only loss being a very highly debated decision loss to Huck in a bout that most felt the Russian has won.
Lebedev combines genuine toughness with both power and skill. He's not the quickest guy in the division or even the biggest but his all round ability and genuinely hurtful shots have made him his name. What has also helped has been his notable scalps including former WBO champion Enzo Maccarinelli, once top amateur Alexander Alekseev and American legends Roy Jones Jr and James Toney (both admittedly well beyond their sell by date).
Despite being 33 years old Lebedev is a young 33 with just 132 rounds under his belt though a lot of this has to do with his power which is genuinely devastating. He can score stoppages both with stunning 1-punch KO power or by grinding opponents down which helps make him a dangerous fighter, every punch he lands hurts.
With plenty known about how good Lebedev is, the real question about this fight is just how good is Santander Silgado? The American based Colombian has a very similar looking record to Lebedev with a actually a higher KO% though though sadly these have been coming at a much lower level, with Silgado actually struggling when he has stepped up to face some more established fighters. Interestingly the Colombian has had to go the distance in his last 3 fights, all in the US against limited opponents.
Sadly, as we all know with Colombians it's hard to really judge just how powerful they actually are due to inflated records from fighting at home. Oddly with Silgado we've actually seen him fighting around the world (having fought in Colombia, Argentina, Dominican Republic, Germany and the USA) however he does have a 10-0 (10) record in Colombia, as opposed to the 13-0 (8) away from the land of his birth.
If Silgado goes in to this thinking he's the puncher he'll be wrong, if he thinks he's the boxer I'd again guess that he'd be wrong. Lebedev is just better in every which way and I'd be shocked if Silgado manages to do much other than get sparked out with a KO of the year contender.
Prediction-Lebedev KO5
Friday 14 December 2012
Arthur Abraham v Mehdi Bouadla
German based Armenian Arthur Abraham (35-3, 27) will make the first defense of his WBO Super Middleweight title this weekend as he faces Frenchman Mehdi Bouadla (26-4, 11) at the Arena Nürnberger Versicherung.
Abraham claimed this title a few months ago as he controversially defeated Robert Stieglitz in a thoroughly fun to watch fight that saw both fighters giving and taking for 12 rounds. It did however take him 3 attempts to claim a Super Middleweight title after having also claimed a Middleweight title way back in 2005.
As a Middleweight Abraham was a really dangerous fighter who could KO fighters at any time, with either hand. His work rate was low, his guard was solid and his style was hugely frustrating, though when he let his hands go he was stupidly fun to watch. Sadly when he moved up to Super Middleweight he found that fighters weren't that easy to beat as the bigger men used their size, especially their reach and their ability to take harder shots. It was at Super Middleweight that Abraham suffered all 3 of his losses, 2 by decision and 1 by DQ.
Whilst Abraham is a known fighter with world credentials spanning the better part of the decade that has seen him in with fighters such as Andre Ward, Carl Froch, Andre Dirrell, Jermain Taylor, Kheron Gevor and Edison Miranda (twice, including a memorable and bloody battle) it's fair to say that Mehdi Bouadla is much less well known. Despite being less high profile Bouadla has himself mixed in world class company having faced a then 8-0 Gennady Golovkin, former title contender Morrade Hakkar and most recently Mikkel Kessler.
For most it's the Kessler fight that really suggest how good Bouadla is, and to be fair, it's not very. He's not bad as such but he's a long way from being a genuinely world class fighter and I think this will be shown as Abraham slowly breaks down Bouadla in the middle to late rounds. Kessler is admittedly a very different fighter to Abraham, but they both bang and I think that one thing in common will show again here.
Prediction-Abrahm TKO9
Abraham claimed this title a few months ago as he controversially defeated Robert Stieglitz in a thoroughly fun to watch fight that saw both fighters giving and taking for 12 rounds. It did however take him 3 attempts to claim a Super Middleweight title after having also claimed a Middleweight title way back in 2005.
As a Middleweight Abraham was a really dangerous fighter who could KO fighters at any time, with either hand. His work rate was low, his guard was solid and his style was hugely frustrating, though when he let his hands go he was stupidly fun to watch. Sadly when he moved up to Super Middleweight he found that fighters weren't that easy to beat as the bigger men used their size, especially their reach and their ability to take harder shots. It was at Super Middleweight that Abraham suffered all 3 of his losses, 2 by decision and 1 by DQ.
Whilst Abraham is a known fighter with world credentials spanning the better part of the decade that has seen him in with fighters such as Andre Ward, Carl Froch, Andre Dirrell, Jermain Taylor, Kheron Gevor and Edison Miranda (twice, including a memorable and bloody battle) it's fair to say that Mehdi Bouadla is much less well known. Despite being less high profile Bouadla has himself mixed in world class company having faced a then 8-0 Gennady Golovkin, former title contender Morrade Hakkar and most recently Mikkel Kessler.
For most it's the Kessler fight that really suggest how good Bouadla is, and to be fair, it's not very. He's not bad as such but he's a long way from being a genuinely world class fighter and I think this will be shown as Abraham slowly breaks down Bouadla in the middle to late rounds. Kessler is admittedly a very different fighter to Abraham, but they both bang and I think that one thing in common will show again here.
Prediction-Abrahm TKO9
Thursday 13 December 2012
Leo Santa Cruz v Alberto Guevara
Exciting Mexican youngster Leo Santa Cruz (22-0-1, 13) looks to finish off an excellent year with his third, and likely final IBF Bantamweight title defense as he faces the unbeaten but untested Alberto Guevara (16-0, 6) live on CBS.
Santa Cruz is quickly becoming one of the new stars of Mexican boxing and appears to be one of the sports most fun to watch fighters regardless of nationality. In terms of his style he's a very tough but educated pressure fighter who brings not only an "in your face" attitude to the ring but also very under-rated boxing ability and a deceptively powerful punch which he uses to grind down opponents.
Although Santa Cruz's record doesn't show him to be a puncher he has developed a real mean streak with which he's been able to force numerous stoppages with in recent fights. In fact Santa Cruz has impressively stopped 11 of his last 12 bouts early with only teak tough South African Vusi Malinga seeing the final bell with others such as Eric Morel, Alejandro Hernandez and Stephane Jamoye all being stopped in that run of 12 fights.
I'm expecting this to be the final time we see Santa Cruz at Bantamweight, a division he seems to be out growing and if he puts on an impressive showing it'll be great to see him mixing with some of the top guys at Super Bantamweight.
Whilst Santa Cruz is well known by boxing fans who have seen him becoming a bit of a star this year, it's fair to admit that Alberto Guevara is much more obscure. In fact it's worrying to discover that Guevara (at the time of writing) is unranked by the IBF and is ranked #47 by boxrec. Almost as interesting is that last time out Guervara apparently weighed in at a ridiculous 136lbs, and now needs to cut back down to 118.
Despite being unbeaten since he turned professional a little over 3 years ago Guevara is really, really untested having fought only 6 opponents with "winning records". Despite the level of his opponents it's fair to admit that Guevara has been stepping up in recent fights with arguably his best 3 wins coming in his last 3 bouts however they are all several levels below that of Santa Cruz.
In all honesty I can't see many fighters at 118lbs living with Santa Cruz's aggression, power and work rate. I think he'd be a nightmare for both Anselmo Moreno and Shinsuke Yamanaka (both fighters who I love) and in fact Santa Cruz could well be the division's #1 fighter as a result I can't Guevara upsetting him. I think Guevara will get ground down and quite early as well.
Prediction-Santa Cruz TKO5
Santa Cruz is quickly becoming one of the new stars of Mexican boxing and appears to be one of the sports most fun to watch fighters regardless of nationality. In terms of his style he's a very tough but educated pressure fighter who brings not only an "in your face" attitude to the ring but also very under-rated boxing ability and a deceptively powerful punch which he uses to grind down opponents.
Although Santa Cruz's record doesn't show him to be a puncher he has developed a real mean streak with which he's been able to force numerous stoppages with in recent fights. In fact Santa Cruz has impressively stopped 11 of his last 12 bouts early with only teak tough South African Vusi Malinga seeing the final bell with others such as Eric Morel, Alejandro Hernandez and Stephane Jamoye all being stopped in that run of 12 fights.
I'm expecting this to be the final time we see Santa Cruz at Bantamweight, a division he seems to be out growing and if he puts on an impressive showing it'll be great to see him mixing with some of the top guys at Super Bantamweight.
Whilst Santa Cruz is well known by boxing fans who have seen him becoming a bit of a star this year, it's fair to admit that Alberto Guevara is much more obscure. In fact it's worrying to discover that Guevara (at the time of writing) is unranked by the IBF and is ranked #47 by boxrec. Almost as interesting is that last time out Guervara apparently weighed in at a ridiculous 136lbs, and now needs to cut back down to 118.
Despite being unbeaten since he turned professional a little over 3 years ago Guevara is really, really untested having fought only 6 opponents with "winning records". Despite the level of his opponents it's fair to admit that Guevara has been stepping up in recent fights with arguably his best 3 wins coming in his last 3 bouts however they are all several levels below that of Santa Cruz.
In all honesty I can't see many fighters at 118lbs living with Santa Cruz's aggression, power and work rate. I think he'd be a nightmare for both Anselmo Moreno and Shinsuke Yamanaka (both fighters who I love) and in fact Santa Cruz could well be the division's #1 fighter as a result I can't Guevara upsetting him. I think Guevara will get ground down and quite early as well.
Prediction-Santa Cruz TKO5
Wednesday 12 December 2012
Nonito Donaire v Jorge Arce
A week after Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao got starched by Mexican multi-weight champion Juan Manuel Marquez, we get another high profile Filipino v Mexican fight as Nonito Donaire (?-?) defends his WBO Bantamweight title against multi-weight world champion Jorge Arce (?-?). Whilst many are viewing this as forgone conclusion it's fair to say that it'll be fun to watch as neither man is often in a poor bout with one of them being known as a KO artist whilst the other is a blood and guts warrior.
Going into the bout Donaire is a big betting favourite (priced around 1/8) and with good reason having looked like a fighter who has been in cruise control in his his recent victories over solid competition such as Toshiaki Nishioka (TKO9), Jeffrey Mathebula (UD12) and Wilfredo Vazquez Jr (some how scored an SD12). Despite his victories there has been questions asked about whether Donaire actually is in cruise control or is actually not as spectacular as once though and whether or not the 30 year old Filipino born fighter is actually on the slide himself against opponents who were there to make him look good.
At his best Donaire is a hard hitting, swift accurate counter puncher who can fight either as an orthodox fighter or as a southpaw. With that ability he's managed to score highlight reel KO's over the likes of Fernando Montiel and Vic Darchinyan. Sadly however those victories seem a long time ago with Donaire's "cruise control" victories over the much smaller Omar Andres Narvaez, the limited Wilfredo Vazquez Jr and the very clumsy Jeffrey Mathebula.
Despite starting his career as a Flyweight, Donaire is still very capable in terms of his speed and power all the way up at Super Bantamweight, with the likely result of this fight seeing him move up to Featherweight for his next bout. Seen as a genuinely top pound-for-pound fighter Donaire, when he steps through the gears is a special fighter, though when he's fighting with in himself he looks awfully over-rated and unspectacular.
Like the champion, the challenger, Jorge Arce has gone through the weights having first won a world title way down at Light Flyweight and having also claimed versions of various titles at Flyweight, Super Flyweight, Bantamweight and Super Bantamweight. Although several of those titles were "interim" titles he is the first Mexican to have any claim to being a 5-weight world champion.
Although Arce is just 3 years older than the champion he's a very old 33 having not had 402 professional rounds, but also a career that dates back to 1996 and has featured more wars than your typical history book. It goes with out saying that Arce's wars have taken their toll on him and it's incredibly rare to see an Arce bout that doesn't see the Mexican left with claret pouring out of his face. Sadly the damage doesn't seem to have forced Arce to tighten up his defense as he attempts to draw everyone in to a battle of attrition, sometimes it works (such as 2011's 12 round TKO over Wilfredo Vazquez Jr) and sometimes it doesn't (as shown in an 11th round TKO loss to Vic Darchinyan).
Due to the fact Arce likes to come to fight I imagine this may not go the distance. Although Donaire is a big favourite, it's possible that Arce can wear him down if he can cut the distance and keep on Donaire's chest neutralising his deadly counter hooks. Sadly for Arce, one of my favourite fighters over the years, I don't think he can cut the distance with out being tagged by bombs on the way in.
Prediction-Nonito Donaire TKO6
Going into the bout Donaire is a big betting favourite (priced around 1/8) and with good reason having looked like a fighter who has been in cruise control in his his recent victories over solid competition such as Toshiaki Nishioka (TKO9), Jeffrey Mathebula (UD12) and Wilfredo Vazquez Jr (some how scored an SD12). Despite his victories there has been questions asked about whether Donaire actually is in cruise control or is actually not as spectacular as once though and whether or not the 30 year old Filipino born fighter is actually on the slide himself against opponents who were there to make him look good.
At his best Donaire is a hard hitting, swift accurate counter puncher who can fight either as an orthodox fighter or as a southpaw. With that ability he's managed to score highlight reel KO's over the likes of Fernando Montiel and Vic Darchinyan. Sadly however those victories seem a long time ago with Donaire's "cruise control" victories over the much smaller Omar Andres Narvaez, the limited Wilfredo Vazquez Jr and the very clumsy Jeffrey Mathebula.
Despite starting his career as a Flyweight, Donaire is still very capable in terms of his speed and power all the way up at Super Bantamweight, with the likely result of this fight seeing him move up to Featherweight for his next bout. Seen as a genuinely top pound-for-pound fighter Donaire, when he steps through the gears is a special fighter, though when he's fighting with in himself he looks awfully over-rated and unspectacular.
Like the champion, the challenger, Jorge Arce has gone through the weights having first won a world title way down at Light Flyweight and having also claimed versions of various titles at Flyweight, Super Flyweight, Bantamweight and Super Bantamweight. Although several of those titles were "interim" titles he is the first Mexican to have any claim to being a 5-weight world champion.
Although Arce is just 3 years older than the champion he's a very old 33 having not had 402 professional rounds, but also a career that dates back to 1996 and has featured more wars than your typical history book. It goes with out saying that Arce's wars have taken their toll on him and it's incredibly rare to see an Arce bout that doesn't see the Mexican left with claret pouring out of his face. Sadly the damage doesn't seem to have forced Arce to tighten up his defense as he attempts to draw everyone in to a battle of attrition, sometimes it works (such as 2011's 12 round TKO over Wilfredo Vazquez Jr) and sometimes it doesn't (as shown in an 11th round TKO loss to Vic Darchinyan).
Due to the fact Arce likes to come to fight I imagine this may not go the distance. Although Donaire is a big favourite, it's possible that Arce can wear him down if he can cut the distance and keep on Donaire's chest neutralising his deadly counter hooks. Sadly for Arce, one of my favourite fighters over the years, I don't think he can cut the distance with out being tagged by bombs on the way in.
Prediction-Nonito Donaire TKO6
Omar Andres Narvaez v David Quijano
Argentinian veteran Omar Andres Narvaez (37-1-2, 20) looks to make the sixth defense of his WBO Super Flyweight title this weekend as he faces the relatively unknown Puerto Rican David Quijano (15-2-1, 9).
On paper this appears to be a bit of a mismatch, as Narvaez, arguably a top 20 pound-for-pound fighter faces someone who's lacking not only name recognition but also any stand out wins. However at 37 years old the defending champion is a fighter who is getting on and may well be on the slide.
Narvaez last fought back in October (stopping Johnny Garcia in 11 rounds) and for much of that fight didn't look himself. His fast handed combinations from the pocket and ability to slip punches often looked lacking as he instead used his movement to frustrate Garcia whilst leaping in with his own shots. The big question is why did Narvaez fight like that? Was it because he was getting old and can't fight with the intensity he used to be able to, or was it because of personal issues, including his father's death just days earlier.
At his best Narvaez was a little demon, he was quick, smart, and whilst not a hard puncher he was hurtful enough to stop fighters walking him down. Oddly the stoppage over Garcia was his first for over 3 years (the previous stoppage being a TKO11 over Omar Soto) and perhaps showed a lot about Narvaez's mental state and how he had some spent up emotion to be throwing at a faded fighter. If however it was Narvaez realising that 12 rounds is a long time to be fighting, he may well be looking for a bow out fight in the coming months.
With an astonishing 334 professional rounds under his belt from his 40 fights (average of 8.35 rounds a fight) Narvaez is very experienced as a professional and also as an amateur having twice competed at the Olympics. Though what's even more impressive is that he's been fighting at a world level since 2002 with over 20 title fights, as impressively as that is that Narvaez is 23-1-1 in world title bouts across 3 weight divisions!
Unlike the champion, the challenger is yet to fight in a world title bout however at 26 years old Quijano he is coming in to his own physical prime and will certainly have youth on his side. Though sadly from his competition I think youth is his only real advantage as his best win to date (a 10 round technical decision over Juanito Rubillar) isn't even nearing the quality of Narvaez's top 10 or so wins.
In terms of his style Quijano is a fighter with a very good guard who comes to fight. In his bout with Rubillar he showed an excellent jab, very good movement and and the ability to slip shots wonderfully, however aside from his jab he did look clumsy and left himself open at times and had it been a fighter better than Rubillar I think Quijano would have been punished.
Interestingly, for once perhaps, Narvaez won't actually be the smaller man in the ring with a 1" height advantage. Despite this I think if Narvaez is 80% of the fighter he was he'll use his usual tactic, fight from the pocket and we'll have a very fun to watch bout between two very short men with similar movement, but a whole world of difference in class. I don't see a stoppage here as Quijano does have a good guard, though I think he'll be dropped with a counter at some point before going into survival mode for the final few rounds.
Prediction- Narvaez UD12
On paper this appears to be a bit of a mismatch, as Narvaez, arguably a top 20 pound-for-pound fighter faces someone who's lacking not only name recognition but also any stand out wins. However at 37 years old the defending champion is a fighter who is getting on and may well be on the slide.
Narvaez last fought back in October (stopping Johnny Garcia in 11 rounds) and for much of that fight didn't look himself. His fast handed combinations from the pocket and ability to slip punches often looked lacking as he instead used his movement to frustrate Garcia whilst leaping in with his own shots. The big question is why did Narvaez fight like that? Was it because he was getting old and can't fight with the intensity he used to be able to, or was it because of personal issues, including his father's death just days earlier.
At his best Narvaez was a little demon, he was quick, smart, and whilst not a hard puncher he was hurtful enough to stop fighters walking him down. Oddly the stoppage over Garcia was his first for over 3 years (the previous stoppage being a TKO11 over Omar Soto) and perhaps showed a lot about Narvaez's mental state and how he had some spent up emotion to be throwing at a faded fighter. If however it was Narvaez realising that 12 rounds is a long time to be fighting, he may well be looking for a bow out fight in the coming months.
With an astonishing 334 professional rounds under his belt from his 40 fights (average of 8.35 rounds a fight) Narvaez is very experienced as a professional and also as an amateur having twice competed at the Olympics. Though what's even more impressive is that he's been fighting at a world level since 2002 with over 20 title fights, as impressively as that is that Narvaez is 23-1-1 in world title bouts across 3 weight divisions!
Unlike the champion, the challenger is yet to fight in a world title bout however at 26 years old Quijano he is coming in to his own physical prime and will certainly have youth on his side. Though sadly from his competition I think youth is his only real advantage as his best win to date (a 10 round technical decision over Juanito Rubillar) isn't even nearing the quality of Narvaez's top 10 or so wins.
In terms of his style Quijano is a fighter with a very good guard who comes to fight. In his bout with Rubillar he showed an excellent jab, very good movement and and the ability to slip shots wonderfully, however aside from his jab he did look clumsy and left himself open at times and had it been a fighter better than Rubillar I think Quijano would have been punished.
Interestingly, for once perhaps, Narvaez won't actually be the smaller man in the ring with a 1" height advantage. Despite this I think if Narvaez is 80% of the fighter he was he'll use his usual tactic, fight from the pocket and we'll have a very fun to watch bout between two very short men with similar movement, but a whole world of difference in class. I don't see a stoppage here as Quijano does have a good guard, though I think he'll be dropped with a counter at some point before going into survival mode for the final few rounds.
Prediction- Narvaez UD12
Friday 7 December 2012
Brian Magee v Mikkel Kessler
Northern Irishman Brian Magee (36-4-1, 25) goes in to the Lion's Den this weekend as he attempts to defend his WBA Super Middleweight title in Denmark against great Dane Mikkel Kessler (45-2, 34). For Magee this is his big chance to really make a mark on the world stage, for Kessler however it's a chance to reclaim a world title at the weight where he really made his name. For us as fans it's a chance to see what Kessler has left in the tank after a long and hard career.
Although currently a world champion, Magee is one of a number of fighters out there who has one limitation that has kept them from the genuine world stage. Sadly he struggles to take a shot at the world level having been dropped 4 times in his first loss (UD loss to Robin Reid) and stopped by both Carl Froch and Lucien Bute. Despite this he has genuine talent as a boxer and gave both Froch and Reid a very, very tough fight.
At 37 years old I feel that this will be Magee's last major fight however it's not the first time I've thought that with his career looking over just 3 years ago after he claimed the British title then spent a year out of the ring. In the last 3 years however Magee has continued to plug away and scored a number of notable victories including a stoppage over Mads Larsen for the European title and a decision victory over Jaime Barboza for the interim WBA Super Middleweight title (which has now been upgraded).
Whilst it's fair to say that Magee's biggest fights have all been losing affairs, it's worth noting that he is 2-0 (2) in Denmark and he has the experience and ability to test anyone at the weight, especially if his opponent is losing a step as many feel Mikkel Kessler is doing. Sadly however for Magee, Kessler is something a bit tougher and hard hitting than Marsen and Rudy Markussen.
At 33 years old it's fair to say that Kessler is probably on the slide, though the likable "Viking Warrior" is someone who has all the tools to mix with the best in the division. He has genuine power, especially in his sledgehammer straight right hand which he can throw to the head and the body, he has a very solid all round game and whilst he doesn't do anything especially amazingly he doesn't have any major flaws. In fact it's fair to say that Kessler is just very good at everything and it takes a fighter with at least 1 superb trait to beat him, Andre Ward and Joe Calzaghe showed with their victories over him.
Although Kessler is a very tough fighter he was dropped last time out by American Allan Green, I believe it was the first time Kessler has been dropped, however that bout was for a Light Heavyweight bauble and Kessler did get himself back up to knock out Green. In fact interestingly Green did seem to hurt Kessler numerous times in the opening round, probably showing that Kessler has had plenty of miles on the clock, however Magee hasn't the power in my eyes to rock him.
Whilst Magee will likely put on a brave showing, I can't help but think Kessler's power and Magee's fragility against bangers will bring us to early end. The first straight right that Kessler lands will likely be the start of the end.
Prediction-Kessler TKO5
Although currently a world champion, Magee is one of a number of fighters out there who has one limitation that has kept them from the genuine world stage. Sadly he struggles to take a shot at the world level having been dropped 4 times in his first loss (UD loss to Robin Reid) and stopped by both Carl Froch and Lucien Bute. Despite this he has genuine talent as a boxer and gave both Froch and Reid a very, very tough fight.
At 37 years old I feel that this will be Magee's last major fight however it's not the first time I've thought that with his career looking over just 3 years ago after he claimed the British title then spent a year out of the ring. In the last 3 years however Magee has continued to plug away and scored a number of notable victories including a stoppage over Mads Larsen for the European title and a decision victory over Jaime Barboza for the interim WBA Super Middleweight title (which has now been upgraded).
Whilst it's fair to say that Magee's biggest fights have all been losing affairs, it's worth noting that he is 2-0 (2) in Denmark and he has the experience and ability to test anyone at the weight, especially if his opponent is losing a step as many feel Mikkel Kessler is doing. Sadly however for Magee, Kessler is something a bit tougher and hard hitting than Marsen and Rudy Markussen.
At 33 years old it's fair to say that Kessler is probably on the slide, though the likable "Viking Warrior" is someone who has all the tools to mix with the best in the division. He has genuine power, especially in his sledgehammer straight right hand which he can throw to the head and the body, he has a very solid all round game and whilst he doesn't do anything especially amazingly he doesn't have any major flaws. In fact it's fair to say that Kessler is just very good at everything and it takes a fighter with at least 1 superb trait to beat him, Andre Ward and Joe Calzaghe showed with their victories over him.
Although Kessler is a very tough fighter he was dropped last time out by American Allan Green, I believe it was the first time Kessler has been dropped, however that bout was for a Light Heavyweight bauble and Kessler did get himself back up to knock out Green. In fact interestingly Green did seem to hurt Kessler numerous times in the opening round, probably showing that Kessler has had plenty of miles on the clock, however Magee hasn't the power in my eyes to rock him.
Whilst Magee will likely put on a brave showing, I can't help but think Kessler's power and Magee's fragility against bangers will bring us to early end. The first straight right that Kessler lands will likely be the start of the end.
Prediction-Kessler TKO5
Thursday 6 December 2012
Javier Fortuna v Patrick Hyland
In a battle of unbeaten fighters Dominican Javier Fortuna (20-0-0-1, 15) takes on Irishman Patrick Hyland (27-0, 12) for the interim WBA Featherweight title in what should be a very intriguing match up for both men.
Going in to this match up I'd have to make the 29 year old Hyland the under-dog. Despite having a longer unbeaten record at 27 fights (dating back to 2004) he hasn't yet really been given a tough test, at least not a test that should prepare him for a world title bout. In fact looking over Hyland's record it's hard to see who was supposed to push him and see what he was really made of with the only "testing" opponent being former world title challenger Emmanuel Lucero (who had lost his previous 2 bouts, and is now 0-7 in his last 7).
Despite his paper record Hyland is regarded highly, especially in Ireland where he started his career. Despite starting his career in Ireland however he is now based in the US where he has fought his last 3 bouts (and 6 in total). Alongside his brothers Paul and Eddie he is seen as a potential draw amongst the Irish-American contingent however he's been somewhat protected due to the losses of his brothers who have had their limitations shown up.
As well as being untested Hyland has issues. He was pushed incredibly hard by Lucero who took his best power shots and kept coming, showing that Hyland doesn't have the power to force a tough opponent on to the back foot, in fact a tough fighter will likely be happy to take one to land one from him. Saying this however he has got solid skills and was a former stand out amateur who is well schooled and knows how to box. He also has Jersey Shore personality "Snooki" behind him and will likely have a bigger fan base in the arena.
Sadly for Hyland, whilst he's not tested, his opponent Javier Fortuna is tested and has been passing tests with ease. In fact the way he has been passing his tests has caught the eye of boxing fans around the globe who have began to rate Fortuna as one of the best emerging youngsters in the sport.
Aged just 23 the Dominican fighter has been fast tracked up the rankings building on his excellent amateur pedigree. His handlers have had no problems with matching him hard and that's why he is where he is so quickly. In just his 11th bout Fortuna suffered the only "black mark" on his record so far suffering an opening round No Contest with former Lightweight title contender Francisco Lorenzo and since then he has been destroying opponents with ease.
Amongst those beaten by Fortuna are recent world title challenger Miguel Roman, previously unbeaten prospect Yuandale Evans and most recently former world champion Cristobal Cruz. He has so far shown amazing power, speed, and whilst he's still a little crude he has the natural gifts to get away with his mistakes.
Personally it's the difference in power and in competition that make me favour Fortuna and favour him big. I just can't see Hyland having the power to punish Fortuna's mistakes whilst Fortuna himself will just bully and beat down Hyland before forcing stoppage.
Prediction-Fortuna TKO5
Going in to this match up I'd have to make the 29 year old Hyland the under-dog. Despite having a longer unbeaten record at 27 fights (dating back to 2004) he hasn't yet really been given a tough test, at least not a test that should prepare him for a world title bout. In fact looking over Hyland's record it's hard to see who was supposed to push him and see what he was really made of with the only "testing" opponent being former world title challenger Emmanuel Lucero (who had lost his previous 2 bouts, and is now 0-7 in his last 7).
Despite his paper record Hyland is regarded highly, especially in Ireland where he started his career. Despite starting his career in Ireland however he is now based in the US where he has fought his last 3 bouts (and 6 in total). Alongside his brothers Paul and Eddie he is seen as a potential draw amongst the Irish-American contingent however he's been somewhat protected due to the losses of his brothers who have had their limitations shown up.
As well as being untested Hyland has issues. He was pushed incredibly hard by Lucero who took his best power shots and kept coming, showing that Hyland doesn't have the power to force a tough opponent on to the back foot, in fact a tough fighter will likely be happy to take one to land one from him. Saying this however he has got solid skills and was a former stand out amateur who is well schooled and knows how to box. He also has Jersey Shore personality "Snooki" behind him and will likely have a bigger fan base in the arena.
Sadly for Hyland, whilst he's not tested, his opponent Javier Fortuna is tested and has been passing tests with ease. In fact the way he has been passing his tests has caught the eye of boxing fans around the globe who have began to rate Fortuna as one of the best emerging youngsters in the sport.
Aged just 23 the Dominican fighter has been fast tracked up the rankings building on his excellent amateur pedigree. His handlers have had no problems with matching him hard and that's why he is where he is so quickly. In just his 11th bout Fortuna suffered the only "black mark" on his record so far suffering an opening round No Contest with former Lightweight title contender Francisco Lorenzo and since then he has been destroying opponents with ease.
Amongst those beaten by Fortuna are recent world title challenger Miguel Roman, previously unbeaten prospect Yuandale Evans and most recently former world champion Cristobal Cruz. He has so far shown amazing power, speed, and whilst he's still a little crude he has the natural gifts to get away with his mistakes.
Personally it's the difference in power and in competition that make me favour Fortuna and favour him big. I just can't see Hyland having the power to punish Fortuna's mistakes whilst Fortuna himself will just bully and beat down Hyland before forcing stoppage.
Prediction-Fortuna TKO5
Miguel Vazquez v Mercito Gesta
Mexican Miguel Vazquez (32-3, 13) was less than impressive when he defended his IBF Lightweight title last time out against Marvin Quintero though he will hope to be more impressive this weekend as he faces the unbeaten Mercito Gesta (26-0-1, 14).
At his best Vazquez is a pure boxer with great movement, an excellent jab and a wonderful control of distance as he counters and moves his opponent with ease. At his worst, as we saw against Quintero, he can be a runner who can be forced to move more than box. Though whether he's at his best or worst, Vazquez is a tough man who his hard to hurt, very difficult to drop and very, very slippery to tag cleanly.
For all his trickery and slipperiness Vazquez' also has his negatives, notably his lack of power which has seen him stopping less than 40% of his fights early. He's sharp with his shots though they are rarely thrown with his weight behind them and as a result they lack the concussive force needed to put fighters off coming forward at him.
Vazquez is unbeaten in over 4 years (since suffering a second defeat to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, who also beat him on Vazquez's debut) and has improved over that time. Not only has he become a world champion but he's also defeated numerous known fighters such as Breidis Prescott, Ji-Hoon Kim, Leonardo Zappavigna and Ameth Diaz often by frustrating them with his movement and jab. It's fair to say however that if you can take his wheels away, either with body shots or a good ability to cut the ring down, Vazquez could be made to look ordinary.
Whilst Vazquez is well known thanks to his top tier wins and even his loss, Gesta is better known for the fact that there is a lot of hype surrounding him especially from the Filipino fans who feel he could be the next Manny Pacquiao. Sadly however from what I've seen of Gesta he looks awfully ordinary with little to really make him stand out.
Whilst Gesta is unbeaten in 27 fights his best wins are over very limited opponents who have been there to make him look good as opposed to testing his skills. This has made it hard to actually know just how good he really is, though he did his job well last time out as he stopped Ty Barnett in 9 rounds with solid, hurtful shots.
Although Gesta is young and hungry I just can't see him getting to Vazquez who, for me, is a level or two better than Gesta and is much, much more proven. Gesta will put up a tireless effort, though will be clearly out boxed by a very intelligent Mexican fighter who doesn't try to do what other Mexicans do.
Prediction-Vazquez UD
At his best Vazquez is a pure boxer with great movement, an excellent jab and a wonderful control of distance as he counters and moves his opponent with ease. At his worst, as we saw against Quintero, he can be a runner who can be forced to move more than box. Though whether he's at his best or worst, Vazquez is a tough man who his hard to hurt, very difficult to drop and very, very slippery to tag cleanly.
For all his trickery and slipperiness Vazquez' also has his negatives, notably his lack of power which has seen him stopping less than 40% of his fights early. He's sharp with his shots though they are rarely thrown with his weight behind them and as a result they lack the concussive force needed to put fighters off coming forward at him.
Vazquez is unbeaten in over 4 years (since suffering a second defeat to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, who also beat him on Vazquez's debut) and has improved over that time. Not only has he become a world champion but he's also defeated numerous known fighters such as Breidis Prescott, Ji-Hoon Kim, Leonardo Zappavigna and Ameth Diaz often by frustrating them with his movement and jab. It's fair to say however that if you can take his wheels away, either with body shots or a good ability to cut the ring down, Vazquez could be made to look ordinary.
Whilst Vazquez is well known thanks to his top tier wins and even his loss, Gesta is better known for the fact that there is a lot of hype surrounding him especially from the Filipino fans who feel he could be the next Manny Pacquiao. Sadly however from what I've seen of Gesta he looks awfully ordinary with little to really make him stand out.
Whilst Gesta is unbeaten in 27 fights his best wins are over very limited opponents who have been there to make him look good as opposed to testing his skills. This has made it hard to actually know just how good he really is, though he did his job well last time out as he stopped Ty Barnett in 9 rounds with solid, hurtful shots.
Although Gesta is young and hungry I just can't see him getting to Vazquez who, for me, is a level or two better than Gesta and is much, much more proven. Gesta will put up a tireless effort, though will be clearly out boxed by a very intelligent Mexican fighter who doesn't try to do what other Mexicans do.
Prediction-Vazquez UD
Wednesday 5 December 2012
Nicholas Walters v Daulis Prescott
Aggressive and fun to watch Nicholas Walters (21-0, 17) gets his first chance to claim a version of a world title as he faces Colombian Daulis Prescott (26-1-0-3, 19) after a political situation saw the WBA Featherweight title become vacant. The WBA title, previous held by Panamanian Celestino Caballero hasn't been defended since December 2011 and the WBA seem to have lost patience with Caballero.
Jamaican Walters is a pretty well kept secret in boxing circles who has only really been seen by the hardcore fans who have made an effort to catch the long cards from Panama (where he has fought 19 of his 21 bouts to date). For those who have managed to see him, they've been treat to a hugely fun to watch, slightly wild but very powerful fighter with a genuinely eye catching style.
Although Walters is somewhat unknown by the vast majority of fight fans he has scored some decent wins, with the most notable of those coming last year against former world title challenger Irving Berry (TKO6). Though of course his record is relatively thin compared to that of many others in and around the Featherweight, he has shown the ability to beat good fighters.
Having been professional since 2008 the 26 year old Walters will be hoping to make an impression here, though it's fair to say that Daulis Prescott will also be wanting to prove himself. Prescott, the younger brother of Breidis Prescott (best known for stopping Amir Khan inside a round) may not be as as known as his older brother though has quietly been forging his own career since turning professional way back in 2006.
Like Walters, Prescott has been been fighting relatively under-the-radar though unlike Walters', Prescott has suffered a defeat being out pointed by Armenian Gabriel Tolmajyan last year in a split decision. As well as this loss he also has 3 no contests thanks to head clashes which have plagued his career in all honesty .
Since his loss to Tolmajyan, Prescott has run up 3 straight victories including a decision win over the then 11-1 Saul Morales, arguably the best victory of Prescott's career so far. Sadly however for Prescott, Morales is no where near the level of Walters and I tend to think that it's the loss of Prescott that tells us more about him than anything else.
With Walters' power and Prescott's limited ability I dare say that Prescott (who goes into this as the WBA's #5 ranked fighter some how) will get put into his shell early and eventually ground down in the latter half of the fight.
Prediction-Walters TKO7
Jamaican Walters is a pretty well kept secret in boxing circles who has only really been seen by the hardcore fans who have made an effort to catch the long cards from Panama (where he has fought 19 of his 21 bouts to date). For those who have managed to see him, they've been treat to a hugely fun to watch, slightly wild but very powerful fighter with a genuinely eye catching style.
Although Walters is somewhat unknown by the vast majority of fight fans he has scored some decent wins, with the most notable of those coming last year against former world title challenger Irving Berry (TKO6). Though of course his record is relatively thin compared to that of many others in and around the Featherweight, he has shown the ability to beat good fighters.
Having been professional since 2008 the 26 year old Walters will be hoping to make an impression here, though it's fair to say that Daulis Prescott will also be wanting to prove himself. Prescott, the younger brother of Breidis Prescott (best known for stopping Amir Khan inside a round) may not be as as known as his older brother though has quietly been forging his own career since turning professional way back in 2006.
Like Walters, Prescott has been been fighting relatively under-the-radar though unlike Walters', Prescott has suffered a defeat being out pointed by Armenian Gabriel Tolmajyan last year in a split decision. As well as this loss he also has 3 no contests thanks to head clashes which have plagued his career in all honesty .
Since his loss to Tolmajyan, Prescott has run up 3 straight victories including a decision win over the then 11-1 Saul Morales, arguably the best victory of Prescott's career so far. Sadly however for Prescott, Morales is no where near the level of Walters and I tend to think that it's the loss of Prescott that tells us more about him than anything else.
With Walters' power and Prescott's limited ability I dare say that Prescott (who goes into this as the WBA's #5 ranked fighter some how) will get put into his shell early and eventually ground down in the latter half of the fight.
Prediction-Walters TKO7
Yuriorkis Gamboa v Michael Farenas
Former Cuban amateur sensation Yuriorkis Gamboa (21-0, 16) will return to the ring for the first time in 15 months as he faces unheralded Filipino Michael Farenas (34-3-4-1, 26) in a bout for the interim WBA Super Featherweight title. Although Gamboa goes in to this bout as a big favourite, I can't help but feel this will be a much tougher test than many anticipate.
Gamboa made his name as one of a number of truly elite Cuban amateurs alongside the likes of Guillermo Rigondeaux and Odlanier Solis and was seen as a professional champion in the making from day 1. It didn't take long for Gamboa to fulfill on his promise and within 2 years of being a professional he had already claimed the WBA Featherweight title stopping Jose Rojas in 10 rounds.
Having won a world title in just his 15th professional contest, Gamboa went from strength to strength and scored title defenses against the likes of Whyber Garcia, Rogers Mtagwa and Jonathan Victor Barros before unifying with IBF champion Orlando Salido. As the Unified WBA/IBF champion Gamboa was arguably the division's #1 fighter though sadly he got stripped of both titles and also suffered various issues with promoter Bob Arum.
It's those promotional issues that have really stopped Gamboa from being a real star. He has the talent and the style to be a major pound-for-pound player on the world stage though Arum prevented Gamboa from getting to popular Puerto Rican slugger Juan Manuel Lopez in what would have been a mega fight and Gamboa refused to allow Arum to bully him into a fight with Brandon Rios (Rios would later go on to claim a controversial victory over Richard Abril in one of the robbery of the year contenders).
The promotional issues surrounding Gamboa have now been sorted out with rap star 50 Cent acting as Gamboa's promoter though Gamoa will, rather ironically be fighting on a Top Rank (Bob Arum).
In terms of his fighting style Gamboa is at his best boxing offensively with his lightning quick and genuinely hurtful combinations and flurries which see him living up to his moniker of "El Ciclon de Guantánamo" (The Cyclone of Guantanamo). Though Gamboa has proven that he's not just a 1-trick pony and that he can also box on his toes going in and out with either single shots or short bursts of punches before getting back out to safety. Early in his career however Gamboa was dropped several times as he took too many risks, something he has since corrected about his style.
Whilst everyone in boxing knows all about Yuriorkis Gamboa, the people that know Michael Farenas are much fewer, however this won't be the first time he's mixed in world class, having fought a 3 round technical draw with WBA Super Featherweight champion Takashi Uchiyama earlier this year. As well as the draw with Uchiyama Farenas has also faced known fighters such as Walter Estrada, Daniel Attah, Fernando Beltran and Marlon Aguilar (who was the last man to defeat him).
Promoted by former world champion Gerry Penalosa, Farenas has come on leaps and bounds in recent years and is a much improved fighter to the man who started his career 8-2-1, however he's certainly not a proven world beater and his power at fringe level is limited. Oddly he was giving Uchiyama a hard time early in their fight prior to the fight ending head clash and looked rather tough, something that should be evidenced from his record of never having been stopped.
Although he's far from a known quantity in America, Farenas will know that the crowd will have a lot of fans pulling for his countryman Manny Pacquiao in the main event and he may well take some energy from them as he looks for a major upset to close out the year. Sadly however his best chance comes in the fact that Gamboa has been out of the ring for over a year and has fought only 12 rounds in the past 27 months, this sort of inactivity for a fighter like Gamboa can really mess with his speed, timing and sharpness. This isn't like Denton Vassell v Ronnie Heffron a week back in Britain, Gamboa is a fighter who needs his speed, Vassell was a power house who slowly broke down Heffron.
Whilst Gamboa is rightfully the favourite, I'd certainly not count out an upset here as Farenas is confident, and Gamboa will be rusty.
Prediction-Gamboa UD (though with some difficult moments).
Gamboa made his name as one of a number of truly elite Cuban amateurs alongside the likes of Guillermo Rigondeaux and Odlanier Solis and was seen as a professional champion in the making from day 1. It didn't take long for Gamboa to fulfill on his promise and within 2 years of being a professional he had already claimed the WBA Featherweight title stopping Jose Rojas in 10 rounds.
Having won a world title in just his 15th professional contest, Gamboa went from strength to strength and scored title defenses against the likes of Whyber Garcia, Rogers Mtagwa and Jonathan Victor Barros before unifying with IBF champion Orlando Salido. As the Unified WBA/IBF champion Gamboa was arguably the division's #1 fighter though sadly he got stripped of both titles and also suffered various issues with promoter Bob Arum.
It's those promotional issues that have really stopped Gamboa from being a real star. He has the talent and the style to be a major pound-for-pound player on the world stage though Arum prevented Gamboa from getting to popular Puerto Rican slugger Juan Manuel Lopez in what would have been a mega fight and Gamboa refused to allow Arum to bully him into a fight with Brandon Rios (Rios would later go on to claim a controversial victory over Richard Abril in one of the robbery of the year contenders).
The promotional issues surrounding Gamboa have now been sorted out with rap star 50 Cent acting as Gamboa's promoter though Gamoa will, rather ironically be fighting on a Top Rank (Bob Arum).
In terms of his fighting style Gamboa is at his best boxing offensively with his lightning quick and genuinely hurtful combinations and flurries which see him living up to his moniker of "El Ciclon de Guantánamo" (The Cyclone of Guantanamo). Though Gamboa has proven that he's not just a 1-trick pony and that he can also box on his toes going in and out with either single shots or short bursts of punches before getting back out to safety. Early in his career however Gamboa was dropped several times as he took too many risks, something he has since corrected about his style.
Whilst everyone in boxing knows all about Yuriorkis Gamboa, the people that know Michael Farenas are much fewer, however this won't be the first time he's mixed in world class, having fought a 3 round technical draw with WBA Super Featherweight champion Takashi Uchiyama earlier this year. As well as the draw with Uchiyama Farenas has also faced known fighters such as Walter Estrada, Daniel Attah, Fernando Beltran and Marlon Aguilar (who was the last man to defeat him).
Promoted by former world champion Gerry Penalosa, Farenas has come on leaps and bounds in recent years and is a much improved fighter to the man who started his career 8-2-1, however he's certainly not a proven world beater and his power at fringe level is limited. Oddly he was giving Uchiyama a hard time early in their fight prior to the fight ending head clash and looked rather tough, something that should be evidenced from his record of never having been stopped.
Although he's far from a known quantity in America, Farenas will know that the crowd will have a lot of fans pulling for his countryman Manny Pacquiao in the main event and he may well take some energy from them as he looks for a major upset to close out the year. Sadly however his best chance comes in the fact that Gamboa has been out of the ring for over a year and has fought only 12 rounds in the past 27 months, this sort of inactivity for a fighter like Gamboa can really mess with his speed, timing and sharpness. This isn't like Denton Vassell v Ronnie Heffron a week back in Britain, Gamboa is a fighter who needs his speed, Vassell was a power house who slowly broke down Heffron.
Whilst Gamboa is rightfully the favourite, I'd certainly not count out an upset here as Farenas is confident, and Gamboa will be rusty.
Prediction-Gamboa UD (though with some difficult moments).
Monday 3 December 2012
Koki Kameda v Hugo Ruiz
In a rare mid-week world title fight, we see WBA Bantamweight champion Koki Kameda (28-1, 17) fighting the former WBA interim Bantamweight champion Hugo Ruiz (31-1, 28) on Tuesday at the wonderfully named Bodymaker Colosseum in Osaka. For Kameda this will be his 5th title defense at Bantamweight having also held titles at both Light Flyweight and Flyweight. For Ruiz however it's a chance to finally claim the full version of a world title after having been the inteirm champion for close to 2 years.
The 26 year old Japanese fighter is seen as one of Japans top boxers, and is infect their only ever 3-weight world champion. Despite this many in Japan dislike Koki due to the fact he's a bit, well, cocky and many liken him to Floyd Mayweather Jr in regards to the fact many want to see him lose. Despite the general dislike to Koki he is an attraction and can draw huge numbers on Japanese TV with similar numbers (in terms of%) to what the Klitschko's draw in Germany.
At a smidge over 5'5" Kameda and with a 66" reach Kameda was huge at Light Flyweight and it showed when he fought at the weight. Though at Bantamweight he's not often going to be the bigger man, in fact in all honesty he's probably around the average, though he will be dwarfed by the freakishly tall Ruiz (who's got a 3" height advantage). In the lower weights Kameda's size mattered and he scored 10 stoppages in his first 11 bouts. Since going up through the weights (and facing significantly better opponents) Kameda's stoppage rate has started to nose dive with just 7 stoppages in his last 18 bouts. Interestingly however Kameda has stopped 3 of his last 6, though they were lesser opponents.
In terms of his style Kameda is a fast handed fighter who can fight on on the back foot, though is much better on the front foot. Despite his ability to throw lovely flurries he's not got the hurtful power on them that may bother really genuine Bantamweights and in his most notable bout at the weight he was pushed all the way by Mexican David De La Mora (a bout Kameda won by very debated Unanimous Decision). Tellingly De La Mora was stopped 2 fights later by Anselmo Moreno and thoroughly out boxed by Kameda's countryman Ryosuke Iwasa. The fact Kameda struggled so much with De La Mora tells me, personally that this is a weight that Kameda can't use his physicality to bully the better fighters, and Ruiz is one of the better fighters in the division.
Despite the fact Kameda is unbeaten at Bantamweight and has only suffered one career set back, a decision loss to Thai great Pongsaklek Wonjongkam down at Flyweight, he's also been somewhat selective in his opponents. De La Mora aside the combined record of Kameda's Bantamweight title defenses was 69-19-1 with the last 2 opponents coming in at a rather poor 47-17-1 and the most recent opponent (Nouldy Manakane) has been out boxed by a debutant (Kenji Kubo) since then!
Whilst Kameda is lauded over by many, Mexican Hugo Ruiz (also 26) is often over-looked and seen as being well down the proverbial pecking order at 118lbs with Boxrec and Fightnews both having him ranked #10 (Kameda is #6 Boxrec, #8 Fightnews) whilst Ring give him a more respectable #8 ranking (with Kameda a lofty #5). Despite this Ruiz is a battle hardened fighter who can give almost everyone at 118lb real questions.
Ruiz turned professional almost 6 years ago to the day and after running off 9 straight opening round T/KO's he lost for the first (and only time in his career) as he was stopped by Enrique Quevedo. Since his loss, back in 2007, he has continued to develop whilst maintaining his ridiculous power and whilst he's a bit vulnerable, he's got genuine fight changing power.
Wile Ruiz hasn't yet faced a real genuine world level talent, like Kameda has (Kameda has faced Daisuke Naito and Pongsaklek Wonjongkam amongst others) he has been mowing through B class fighters for fun and has stopped fighters like Francisco Arce, Jean Sampson and Yonfrez Parejo in recent bouts. Despite this Arce did show up Ruiz's vulnerabilities and dropped Ruiz twice in their first encounter (before being stopped in their second).
With the sheer size, power and strength of Ruiz I'm favouring the Mexican here, even though it is his first fight out of his native Mexico. Kameda, who has never been stopped before, will be hit harder than he has ever been hit and I just see him folding when he realises that Ruiz's jab is like a straight from most other Bantamweights. For Kameda to retain he will have to get inside the reach of Ruiz and this is much easier said than done.
Prediction-Ruiz TKO7
The 26 year old Japanese fighter is seen as one of Japans top boxers, and is infect their only ever 3-weight world champion. Despite this many in Japan dislike Koki due to the fact he's a bit, well, cocky and many liken him to Floyd Mayweather Jr in regards to the fact many want to see him lose. Despite the general dislike to Koki he is an attraction and can draw huge numbers on Japanese TV with similar numbers (in terms of%) to what the Klitschko's draw in Germany.
At a smidge over 5'5" Kameda and with a 66" reach Kameda was huge at Light Flyweight and it showed when he fought at the weight. Though at Bantamweight he's not often going to be the bigger man, in fact in all honesty he's probably around the average, though he will be dwarfed by the freakishly tall Ruiz (who's got a 3" height advantage). In the lower weights Kameda's size mattered and he scored 10 stoppages in his first 11 bouts. Since going up through the weights (and facing significantly better opponents) Kameda's stoppage rate has started to nose dive with just 7 stoppages in his last 18 bouts. Interestingly however Kameda has stopped 3 of his last 6, though they were lesser opponents.
In terms of his style Kameda is a fast handed fighter who can fight on on the back foot, though is much better on the front foot. Despite his ability to throw lovely flurries he's not got the hurtful power on them that may bother really genuine Bantamweights and in his most notable bout at the weight he was pushed all the way by Mexican David De La Mora (a bout Kameda won by very debated Unanimous Decision). Tellingly De La Mora was stopped 2 fights later by Anselmo Moreno and thoroughly out boxed by Kameda's countryman Ryosuke Iwasa. The fact Kameda struggled so much with De La Mora tells me, personally that this is a weight that Kameda can't use his physicality to bully the better fighters, and Ruiz is one of the better fighters in the division.
Despite the fact Kameda is unbeaten at Bantamweight and has only suffered one career set back, a decision loss to Thai great Pongsaklek Wonjongkam down at Flyweight, he's also been somewhat selective in his opponents. De La Mora aside the combined record of Kameda's Bantamweight title defenses was 69-19-1 with the last 2 opponents coming in at a rather poor 47-17-1 and the most recent opponent (Nouldy Manakane) has been out boxed by a debutant (Kenji Kubo) since then!
Whilst Kameda is lauded over by many, Mexican Hugo Ruiz (also 26) is often over-looked and seen as being well down the proverbial pecking order at 118lbs with Boxrec and Fightnews both having him ranked #10 (Kameda is #6 Boxrec, #8 Fightnews) whilst Ring give him a more respectable #8 ranking (with Kameda a lofty #5). Despite this Ruiz is a battle hardened fighter who can give almost everyone at 118lb real questions.
Ruiz turned professional almost 6 years ago to the day and after running off 9 straight opening round T/KO's he lost for the first (and only time in his career) as he was stopped by Enrique Quevedo. Since his loss, back in 2007, he has continued to develop whilst maintaining his ridiculous power and whilst he's a bit vulnerable, he's got genuine fight changing power.
Wile Ruiz hasn't yet faced a real genuine world level talent, like Kameda has (Kameda has faced Daisuke Naito and Pongsaklek Wonjongkam amongst others) he has been mowing through B class fighters for fun and has stopped fighters like Francisco Arce, Jean Sampson and Yonfrez Parejo in recent bouts. Despite this Arce did show up Ruiz's vulnerabilities and dropped Ruiz twice in their first encounter (before being stopped in their second).
With the sheer size, power and strength of Ruiz I'm favouring the Mexican here, even though it is his first fight out of his native Mexico. Kameda, who has never been stopped before, will be hit harder than he has ever been hit and I just see him folding when he realises that Ruiz's jab is like a straight from most other Bantamweights. For Kameda to retain he will have to get inside the reach of Ruiz and this is much easier said than done.
Prediction-Ruiz TKO7
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