Can Clottey Clock'em?: Pacquiao vs. Clottey

by Troy J. Hines

A two-headed dragon has emerged in 2010 as the omnipotent purveyor of all things “pugilistic”. However, there is one serious problem. There is only one crown to be worn by the two-headed beast. The “would-be” classic that has deteriorated into a possible late 2010 or early 2011 dream, has been replaced with a few elite fights that should satiate boxing fans—at least for now. Whether one believes the negotiations between Golden Boy and Top Rank eroded due to avoiding the most scrupulous style of drug testing, or to the emotional stress of “offensive accusations”, the reality is that on March 13th Manny Pacquiao (50-3-2)will be facing a “game” opponent in Joshua “The Grand Master” Clottey (35-3-0).

Clottey, a Ghanaian native currently fighting out of the Bronx, is the epitome of tough; a true “throw back”. As if carved out of obsidian by God himself, the durable defense of the “Clottey-shell” makes for an almost impenetrable target. The Art of War says, “Those skilled in defense hide in the deepest depths of the Earth,” and Clottey’s chin stays somewhere near the Earth’s core.

When we refer to “The Grand Master”, we are talking about a man who has never been knocked out. To add insult to injury, his only losses to Antonio Margarito and Miguel Cotto were marginal defeats at best. Against the “Tijuana Tornado”, Clottey fractured his hand in the 4th round of their 12 round bout, and lost by a seemingly narrow margin. Then, against “El Boricua de Caguas”, he did his best rendition of Santa Claus by handing Cotto a “present”, by refusing to fight aggressively in the 11th and 12th rounds.

However, on March 13th in Arlington, Texas at Cowboys stadium, courtesy of Jerry Jones, “The Grand Master” will not be fighting your basic A-Class fighter. He will be facing one head of the two-headed dragon; a legend in the making, Manny Pacquiao.

The Tale of the Tape:

Height: Clottey 5’8” / Pacquiao 5’6”
ADVANTAGE CLOTTEY
Reach: Clottey 70” / Pacquiao 67”
ADVANTAGE CLOTTEY
Age: Clottey 33/ Pacquiao 30
ADVANTAGE PACQUIAO
(*note: Pacquiao has had 17 more fights than Clottey… more experience but more “miles”…)
KO%: Clottey 51.28% / Pacquiao 69.09%
ADVANTAGE PACQUIAO

What can be said about Manny Pacquiao that has not already been echoed from Manila to Washington, DC? Nothing…
• 7 World Titles in 7 weight classes
• Ring Magazine’s current number 1 pound-for-pound Boxer in the world
• Starred as the Superhero in the action/comedy feature film, Wapakman
• The only Filipino athlete to ever appear on a postage stamp
• He could possibly become PRESIDENT of the Philippines

While all of these accolades are outstanding, none of them will help Pacquiao defend and keep his WBO welterweight title. In his defense, a sound jab, agile footwork, and relentless overhand lefts and right hooks may do the job. The bottom line, is the best option for the Filipino southpaw to cruise to victory in this fight, is to box. I repeat—box!

Pacquiao’s fighting style can occasionally abandon, yet sometimes defy logic, and thrives on the crescendo of violence. But Pacquiao does not want to go into “Neanderthal” mode with the heavy handed orthodox fighter from Accra. Standing toe-to-toe, or mistaking Clottey’s broad shoulders for pillows, could be the cause for an upset that would place the crown of boxing solidly on the head of the opposing dragon--Mayweather, Jr.

By contrast, Clottey’s game plan should be the exact opposite. Be a soldier and take chances—be a Ga Warrior. Make no mistake, Clottey will not win a decision in this fight. Unfortunately, too much money has been invested in the inevitable creation of a probable 120 million dollar “show down” with “Money” Mayweather. Keeping it “real”, even if Clottey were to dominate Pacquiao for 7 of the 12 rounds, the judges know what’s at stake; a mega fight that has the possibility of breathing life back into prizefighting.

That being said, Clottey has one chance, and once chance only to win this fight. He has to knock Pacman out. The question is, can he be the “bully”? He will have to straddle the line of disqualification, without getting disqualified, like he did against Baldomir. He will have to reinvent himself as the Clottey we saw fight against the late Diego Corrales. That version of the Ga Warrior has a “puncher’s” chance.

However, the Clottey we have seen as of late seems to fade in his fights, whereas Pacquiao continues to grow stronger. In later rounds, Clottey’s punch output decreases, and he allows his “prey” an exit out of the corner. If Clottey wishes to slay the dragon, he must not take a step backwards, make it an ugly fight, and land early and frequently to the body.

The problem is, Pacquiao might not be there. His footwork is incredible, minus the occasional slide of the rear foot, and he circles opponents like an angry hornet. When you look left, he’s on your right, and when you look right you may find yourself staring upwards into the bright lights. As you ease into the comfort of the canvas, how good it feels to rest. But then it’s too late. By the time you realize you need to stand up, the referee is waving his hands in front of your face & prodding for your mouthpiece.

As much as I love knockouts, I believe this fight goes the distance. All Pacman needs to do is box. In addition, by boxing and learning patience, Pacquiao will be preparing himself for the future. Pacquiao will do his job and keep the dream of a mega fight with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. firmly intact. On March 13th boxing fans will hear the baritone voice of Michael Buffer exclaim, “…and STILL the WBO Champion of the World, “The Pride of the Philippines” Maaannyyyyyyyyy PACQUIAO!!!”

Boxing's Rising In The Land Of The Rising Sun: Japanese Prizefighters

By Troy J. Hines

6,781 miles away from the political epicenter of the world, Washington, D.C., lays 4 major islands of the 6,852 that make up the archipelago Nippon-koku or Japan. Like its 4 major islands, Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, 4 major boxing gyms (Kyoei, Yonekura, Misako, and Teiken) in the “Land of the Rising Sun” are developing devastatingly talented prizefighters.

Japan is historically and culturally connected with all things brave. Take a moment to examine the Samurai code in feudal Japan, Kamikaze aviators from WWII, the Shinobi and the art of stealth, and of course Sumo wrestling. Who doesn’t love watching 300 pound men “bulldoze” each other in a diaper? In all seriousness, Japanese boxers have established themselves as a dominant force in the Strawweight through Junior Featherweight divisions, and have done so in an entertaining manner.

As a frame of reference, Japan’s first boxing gym was built in Tokyo in 1921; 2 years after Jack Dempsey won the World Heavyweight title from Jess Willard. Thirty-one years later, Japan produced its first World Champion, Yoshio Shirai, who captured the Flyweight crown from Salvador (Dado) Marino in 1952. Shirai was literally a “diamond in the rough”, as he was lucky to be alive, as this occurred 7 years after the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The smooth orthodox pugilist from Tokyo passed away at the blessed age of 80 years old in 2003. He will remain a legendary figure for the sport in Japan, and in the hearts of boxing fans, forever. Shirai remains a source of inspiration for the 40+ World Champions that the home of the cherry blossom has produced, since his hand was raised in victory.

The most dominant years of Japanese prizefighters was in the 1960’s and early 70’s. Masahiko Harada, current president of the Japanese Boxing Commission (JBC), captured championships in the flyweight (1962) and bantamweight (1965) divisions. As a matter of fact, in the early 70’s, “The Land of the Rising Sun” simultaneously had 5 reigning World Champions. To name a few, Guts Ishimatsu, Koichi Wajima, and Yoko Gushiken, all played a part during this “golden era”, echoing the voice of recognition when it comes to Japanese boxing.

The early 2000’s seem to be making a heroic attempt to be heralded in the same manner. The short list of the current and rising pugilists from Japan include Nobuo Nashiro (current WBA Super Flyweight Champ), Takefumi Sakata (Former WBA Flyweight Champ), Toshiaki Nishioka (current WBC Super Bantamweight Champ), Koki Kameda (WBC Flyweight Champ), and Hozumi Hasegawa. Hasegawa, a fan favorite, is the current WBC Bantamweight Champion, and has defended the title 10 times.

The 29 year-old southpaw touts a record of 28-2-0, and is as technically proficient as any top prizefighter in the sport. Hasegawa knocked out his last opponent, Alvaro Perez, in the fourth round and cracked many boxing pundits Top 10 P4P list—including my own. In addition, Hasegawa was voted Japanese Boxing MVP for the second year in a row by the JBC. Recently there have been talks of Hasegawa traveling across the Pacific and continuing his career in the U.S. Hopefully, this will lead to a bout between the champion from Hyogo, and Golden Boy’s promising Mexican prospect, Abner Mares, who is managed by Frank Espinoza of Espinoza Boxing Club (also manages Israel Vasquez, Martin Castillo, Carlos Molina, Ronny Rios, etc.).

With the 2012 London Olympic Games 2 years away, watch for Japan to make a serious statement in the lighter divisions. Media networks like TBS, TV Tokyo, TV Asahi, Fuji TV, and NTV are having a tremendous impact on the popularity of the sport with the youth. In addition WOWOW, the first private satellite broadcasting station in Japan, features 5 hours of boxing programming per week that generally features National as well as World Champions.

Contrary to popular belief, “boxing’s rising”—especially in Japan. It is always promising when boxing champions begin to emerge in all parts of the world. It reinforces the desire for all things to grow, as it continues to expand its fan base and marketing potential. With a global collective effort, boxing has the chance to turn fans on the periphery into real fans of the “sweet science”. Like a samurai walking from city to city conquering souls for the Shogun with the sword, boxing will conquer the hearts of potential fans around the world with its hands. God Bless Japan.

Sugar Rush: Shane Mosley vs. Andre Berto: PREDICTION

by Troy J. Hines

A severe spike in glucose levels, or a “sugar rush”, is caused by the consumption of high glycemic foods, or foods that release high amounts of sugar into the bloodstream. The real question is, is can this phenomenon also be caused by the consumption of a high volume of “punches”? On Saturday, January 30th, the 2010 elite boxing schedule will commence with a welterweight title unification bout (WBC & WBA) between “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Andre “The Beast” Berto, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, aired only on HBO.

The potential for a classic “changing of the guard” bout is one of the alluring aspects of this match up. Similar to when we saw Hearns defeat Benitez or DelaHoya defeat Chavez, “old blood” is eventually replaced by new in the sport of boxing. However, this pivotal moment in prize fighting typically takes place when the younger challenger is 100 percent ready to take his place at the “throne”. For his sake, I hope Berto will be completely ready for the challenge, because if the same Mosley enters the ring that entered the ring against Antonio Margarito in 2008, we may be waiting in the wings for a new sentry.

Tale of the Tape
Height:
Mosley 5’9”/ Berto 5’8-1/2” ADVANTAGE Mosley by ½”
Weight:
Mosley 147lbs/ Berto 147lbs EVEN
Reach:
Mosley 74”/ Berto 72” ADVANTAGE Mosley by 2”

Andre Berto of Miami, Fl fights in a style similar to the natural disaster that plagues his state of birth—a hurricane. The current WBC Welterweight title holder’s explosive approach to pugilism makes him a fan favorite amongst boxing fans around the world. This is due in part to his devastating right uppercut, but also to his lightning fast-- fingers? To say the Beast is “internet-savvy” is an understatement. Let us not omit that Andre Berto is a pioneer. He is one of the new breed of “self-marketing” athletes who promote themselves on internet networking sites and communication mediums like Twitter. In between training, I assume, Berto finds time to socialize with his fans on the internet, by releasing motivational content, celebrity praise, where he’s partying, or even “trash talking” his next opponent. In short, he is a “twitteraholic”. My only advice for the young “Beast” would be to take an “old school” mental approach towards the “throw back” opponent that he’s facing in Shane Mosley. Take a walk through a forest at night, chop fire wood, or perhaps begin taking cold showers. Even other boxers have “tweeted” to the Haitian-American rising star, that he may want to temporarily abandon his internet pursuits to pursue a dogged mindset against a strong, fast, and fierce opponent in the well seasoned Hall of Famer-to-be.

In 2009, Shane Mosley has had a great impact as to why boxing is on the ascent with major fights on the horizon for 2010. He not only surprised the boxing world with a devastating knockout over the “Tijuana Tornado”, but has also been instrumental as a partner with Golden Boy Promotions to bring “A Class” boxers to the public eye. In addition, with a commitment to fitness and ring tactician Nasim Richardson now in his corner, the aging veteran may have found his fountain of youth.

Mosley’s career certainly seems to be “catching a second wind”. When you couple this with his ring experience, it makes for a severe obstacle even for a young talented fighter. However, even the “magically” gifted who may believe they don’t need anything, need something. The “Urban Dictionary” defines experience as such:

“If you have it, you don't need it.
If you need it, you don't have it.
If you have it, you need more of it.
If you have more of it, you don't need less of it.
You need it to get it.
And you certainly need it to get more of it.
But if you don't already have any of it to begin with,
you can't get any of it to get started with,
so you have no idea how to get any of it in the first place.
Bottom line, if you've never had any of it ever,people
just seem to know.”

Above all else, I believe experience will prove to be the key factor as to why Sugar Shane Mosley wins this fight. Although Berto is coming off of wins against Juan Urango, Luis Collazo, and Steve Forbes, Berto seemed to struggle at times with the latter two opponents. To his credit, Berto has improved aspects of his “game” with each of his last three title defenses. However, most boxing pundits would agree that “Sugar” Shane Mosley will be his most formidable, and definitely his “sweetest”, test to date.

In examining Mosley’s fight history, “Sugar” has consistently fought well against pressure fighters. Vargas, Mayorga, and Margarito all love to press the action with controlled, and at times, wild aggression. This style would be the best option for Berto in this fight, but unfortunately it is still a losing option. Attempting to outbox “Sugar” is even worse. Mosley is the better boxer, and can punish opponents by setting traps and effectively countering.

For all boxing fans, January 30th should be a “sweet” occasion as we witness the WBC and WBA belts unified. I still believe Andre Berto is the welterweight of the near future, but his fight against the inevitable third prize fighting Hall-of-Famer donning the nickname “Sugar” comes too soon. Floyd Mayweather, Sr. showed us how to make Kool Aid in HBO’s 24/7 series, and I’m officially drinking it. And let me tell you, it’s sweet--too sweet. How sweet you may ask? Let’s just say that it’s so sweet it can be bad for your health. However, the experience Berto needs to become legendary will be made available on that night at Mandalay Bay. Sugar rush.

Boxing vs. MMA: Combat Cousins

by Troy J. Hines


Sibling rivalries are common place within families that are loving or dysfunctional. Whether children compete for their mother’s attention, the last “swallow” of orange juice, or the title of “alpha male of the youth division”, competition is as natural in the home as it is inside of the ring. There is now a symbolic rivalry that has emerged, and has been brewing like a good stout over the last decade. Boxing vs. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

It seems as though the “octagon” has captured the attention of the younger generation with a product that is exciting, and with less constraints then its “older cousin”--boxing. The rules of MMA allow combatants to use any variety of kick boxing, striking, grappling, ground-and-pound, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. This concept is amazing, but often times yields “amateur-esque” bouts, due to a lack of proficiency by at least one fighter, in one of the many disciplines allowed.

As an avid boxing fan and martial artist, I have always wondered what the sport will look like in 20 years, when 6 year-olds have been practicing all aspects of their art form, instead of putting combat “puzzle pieces” together late in life? I constantly see great wrestlers with appalling kick boxing and boxing technique, and great kick boxers with less than average “roll” ability. The younger generation will need more experience to develop a keen eye for mistakes, and more than a “jack of all trades, master of none” training regimen.

As an Olympic and truly global sport, boxers have been training in the “Modern Sweet Science” (MSS) since John Graham Chambers wrote the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1865. If we dig deeper, we will find that an archaic form of boxing was an Olympic sport in Greece in 688 B.C., better known as “pygmachia”. Mastery of the jab, over hand right/left, hooks, uppercuts, slipping, crouching, parrying, ducking, footwork, and countering are all subsets of the skill set of boxing. With far more constraints than its “combat cousin”, MMA, it allows boxers more time to perfect their techniques with razor sharp accuracy. I think it is safe to say that a 21 year-old man with zero experience in boxing, will never be able to compete at the pro level after only two years of training in the sport. However, we do see examples of MMA fighters rise to celebrity status with laughable amateur backgrounds. I believe it is actually the constraints of boxing, which begets skill, that make the sport so great.

Rules, or constraints, are what differentiate actual combat from combat sports. In the octagon, if a man wants to shoot and take me to the ground, I will counter with a downward vertical elbow strike to the back of the head or neck. Unfortunately for me, I would be disqualified, and the winner would be rendered unconscious or worse. In my opinion, so called “no holds barred fighting” have constraints that primarily benefit the ground fighter. If it is truly “no holds barred”, allow a striker to strike, eye gouge, or bite if necessary! Just joking. I guess my issue is that due to the numerous kinds of joint locks and chokes allowed, why can’t a striker hit what may be exposed if MMA rests its invincibility on the lack of constraints it possesses?

My love of boxing, although not equal to any other sport, is similar to my love of Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As far as sports are concerned, I suppose this makes me a purist. If I want to see elite level kick boxing, I will watch Buakaw Por Pramuk of Thailand, and if I want to see impressive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu I will watch Roger Gracie. These specialized art forms take a long time to perfect, so to add other skill sets to the “recipe”, can hinder the development of the practitioner in a specific discipline.

In addition, footwork in combat sports is essential to the proper execution of various offensive and defensive techniques. The footwork necessary for boxing, kick boxing, wrestling, judo, etc. are all different. How can a practitioner of 2-4 years of training believe that they have mastered the footwork of all “martial” disciplines? The legendary 17th century Japanese samurai, Miyamoto Musashi, who also authored “The Book of Five Rings”, said it took him nearly 50 years to understand the meaning of what it meant to be a “martial artist”.

Believe it or not, boxing is also a martial art, and a solid amateur foundation provides the nurturing needed to develop elite level fighters. In MMA, most fighters turn pro after 20 fights or less, while in boxing an amateur career of 50 or more fights is customary for elite level champions. In addition, the development of sportsmanship that is stressed to the youth participants in boxing creates a culture that is aligned with the Olympic spirit.

Sometimes respect is the best thing parents can teach a child. Respect for their elders, respect for their teachers, and respect for their siblings. I have enjoyed watching the “little brother” grow, and hopefully the product of MMA will continue to get better and better. My love of the sport of boxing is also coupled with the historic figures associated with it. As a boxer, Muhammad Ali has done so much since the Civil Rights era, to help our nation move forward and stay true to the Constitution that governs our country. Ali is just one example of many boxers that have influenced the world.

Ironically, respect is the element that is missing from the sport called MMA, whereby traditionally respect and martial arts go hand-in-hand. This is more of a product of its ownership, than of the disciplines it governs. Perhaps a step in the right direction is for the caged combatants to bow to each other before the bouts. “Martial Arts” is a heavy phrase, with heavy hands, and the disrespect of the word should have heavy consequences. A lack of respect of MMA for boxing, or boxing for MMA will leave the “Combat Family” with a heavy heart. I hope the youth are listening; there are some great elite level prizefights on the horizon. Watch boxing young grasshopper. Watch boxing.

The D.C. Underdog: Lamont Peterson vs. Timothy Bradley

by Troy J. Hines

The Washington, DC Metro Area, now known as “Barack City”, has produced noteworthy pugilistic talent for many years. To name a few, Bob Foster, Ray Leonard, Simon Brown, Mark Johnson, Sharmba Mitchell, Demarcus Corley, William Joppy, and currently Anthony & Lamont Peterson.

Straight out of the “go hard” South East streets of the former “Murder Capital of the World”, D.C.’s “Peterson Brothers” story of rags to riches, literally, is made for reality television. If being dealt a “bad hand”, and living through financial and emotional hardship is a prerequisite to prizefighting greatness, than the D.C. duo are destined to become World Champions.

On Saturday, December 12th at 9pm EST on Showtime, we will witness a classic “boxer-puncher” match up as boxing ascends back to global recognition with an excellent close to the 2009 season. Lamont Peterson will be challenging the talented champion, Timothy Bradley, for his coveted WBO Junior Welter Weight Belt. Many boxing pundits, other than me, believe Peterson has not fought the same level of competition as the “Schwarzenegger-esque”, “Mini Me” version, Timothy Bradley.

Before going any further, let’s glance at the Tale of the Tape:

Height: Peterson 5’9”/ Bradley 5’6”
ADVANTAGE Peterson by 3”
Weight: Peterson 140/ Bradley 140
EVEN
Reach: Peterson 74”/ Bradley 69”
ADVANTAGE Peterson by 5”

SIZE:
When we examine the size quotient of the two pugilists, let’s do our due diligence by putting our kinesiologist hats on. Size alone does not reveal the most honest comparison of the fighters, but somatotype or body type helps to expose the truth. The somatotype of Timothy Bradley is best described as a compact mesomorph—stocky. This trait, coupled with the genetic gift of speed; or the presence of a plethora of type 2b muscle fibers, yield what many consider lightning fast reflexes and an effective jab. By contrast, Lamont Peterson is best described as an ecto-meso somatotype with the emphasis on the “ecto”—sinewy. Peterson’s longer extremities and almost equal punch velocity will prove to be a key factor into how and why the underdog will emerge victorious.

SPEED:
The slight, let me repeat, slight speed edge goes to the compact speedster from California. However, this miniscule speed edge will be rendered insignificant due to the D.C. native’s mastery of an offensive and defensive jab that is as polished as the wheels on Jay-Z’s Bentley.

SKILL:
In the skill department I would grade the two boxer-punchers equal, because the different skill sets the two gentlemen have mastered are due to differing anatomical qualities. Stocky vs. Sinewy. Long vs. Short. Street vs. Suburbs…

On another topic, word on the “street” is that Lamont Peterson had some very impressive moments against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. during a sparring session this past summer. It is fair to say this is hearsay, but if this is true, I don’t see the speed of Bradley rattling Petersons’ game plan. If Peterson can exploit the shorter man’s reach disadvantage by employing straight right hands as his preferred method of attack, the Washingtonian should effectively penetrate the defense of “Desert Storm”. However, Peterson will not only have to be attentive to the speed of the champion, but to the Kevlar-like head of the Palm Springs native that he sometimes adopts as an alternative to fighting with his hands. On the other hand, Bradley will have to use good head movement, which he already possesses, and strategies of entry to keep the fight on the inside. Body shots and close quarters combinations will be the champions’ best “friends”.

In my opinion, Petersons’ ability to keep Bradley at bay and off balance, via an effective single and double jab, will be one of the keys to victory for the fighter who prefers “Go-Go” to “Hip-Hop”. The way I see this prizefight, is that the “hungrier” man wins this bout by decision. In the words of Bob Marley, “A hungry man is an angry man…” Stay focused Lamont, bring the title home, and have lunch at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. when you get back. Word on the street is that you don’t even need an invite. Stick and move!

Williams vs. Martinez: Two South Paws, One Winner: PREDICTION

by Troy J. Hines

I sat in front of my computer screen for a long time before I began typing this prediction. Due to my love of the sport of boxing, my respect for Paul Williams (37-1), and the need to remain objective for this analysis, I had to replace my “child-like” admiration of the fighter, with the discerning eye of a concerned Dad. I have had the wonderful opportunity of dining with Williams, one of his sparring partners, and his trainer/mentor George Peterson during the height of their preparation for the anticipated showdown with Kelly “The Hoax” Pavlik—sorry I meant “Ghost”. You know—“Ghost”, as in flighty or false imagery, the spirit or the lack thereof, or “I’m pulling out of the fight to fight a lesser opponent” kind of “ghost”. Once again I apologize. As a budding journalist that was not politically correct.

Moving forward, one of the things I first noticed about the humble champion from “South Cackalaky” was a calm reserve that is usually donned by grandfathers and yacht owners, rarely amongst young prize fighters. There was no arrogance in his handshake, he spoke softly but confidently, and displayed his mind-boggling reach as he grabbed the A-1 from the other side of the table. If you haven’t seen the “Supreme Ectomorph” in battle, you are in for a treat when he squares off with another south paw, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez (44-2-1), on Saturday, December 5th at 9:30pm EST only on HBO.

The two “Lefties” should provide “game” entertainment for boxing fans as styles make fights. To his credit, Martinez is a dangerous and speedy “boxer-puncher” who was robbed of his knockout of Kermit Cintron on February 14th 2009. Before I go any further, let’s take a look at the tale of the tape:

Height: Williams 6’2” /Martinez 5’11” ADVANTAGE Williams by 3”
Weight: Williams 160 /Martinez 160 EVEN
Age: Williams 28/ Martinez 34 ADVANTAGE Williams in the Youth Department
Reach: Williams 82”/ Martinez 76” ADVANTAGE Williams by 4”

I truly enjoyed watching Martinez (51% Wins by KO), use foot speed, hand speed, and showmanship to earn an eventual knockout over Cintron—no this was NOT a draw. It was a KO mistaken for a head butt by Cintron and the referee. I have one word for the governing bodies of boxing—INSTANT REPLAY! The difference in this fight with Mr. Williams (71% Wins by KO) is that punch volume will not be an issue by which the quick footed Argentine can steal rounds. However, if Martinez can keep the fight on the inside, and effectively commit to the body, he may be able to slow down “The Punisher’s” rate of onslaught. On the other hand, “Maravillas” lust for showmanship, i.e. showboating with his hands down, could be one of several reasons which result in The South American “kissing the canvas”. Make no mistake, I am not saying this will be an easy fight for Williams as his only loss comes from another Latin fighter off lesser ability—Carlos Quintana. To “The Punisher’s” credit, he avenged that loss with a devastating first round KO of the Puerto Rican fighter that all but obliterated that loss from our memories. However with patience, as I believe he’s learned, the talented fighter from Aiken should be able to win by knockout. I can visualize Williams dominating the older, shorter man with stiff jabs, straight lefts, and other not so easily named punches from all angles. Williams will need to put on an impressive performance to leave promoters and fighters that have been ducking him in the past, nowhere to hide.

The long and lean fighter from the “Dirty South” reminds me of the character Dhalsim of the famous Arcade game Street Fighter II. Dhalsim’s endless arms, like Williams’, become longer as the deadly Yoga master blasts his inferior opponents from long range. Then using ancient Kabbadi magic he leaves his victims charred within a burning inferno. OK, maybe, just maybe, I’m exaggerating the “The Punisher’s” abilities. But if I were a betting man, I’d say Mr. Williams will be saying “Buenos Noches” to the exciting south paw from Buenos Aires.

Fast FWD: (For WARD)

Be-Bop-Bop-Be-Ditty-Be-Bop-BISH! The crash of a stick against a cymbal or a right hand against the mandible has a symbiotic relationship. It is hard for me not to think about Jazz when I see a legend in the making like Andre Ward engage in pugilism. In either discipline, rhythm, timing, and power come together to stimulate at least two of the five senses for the prize fighting audience--audio and visual perfection. The similarities between boxing and percussion have always been obvious to me. These parallels become clearer when I witness the development of a rare breed of fighter—a champion.

There is a reason that the 25 year-old 2004 Olympic Gold medalist, is the only boxer to be prospected by Michael Jordan (Jordan Brand) since the departure of Roy Jones, Jr. Although boxing has become, for many, a sport on the periphery, fighters like Floyd Mayweather, Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Andre Ward keep the larger concerns interested in their progress. Currently wearing the badge of the “undefeated”, with 8 of his last 10 fights ending in TKO, Andre Ward has the chance to make himself a “star” with a win against the current WBA Super Middleweight Champion Mikkel Kessler.

Kessler, also known as “The Viking Warrior”, will be paddling his “oar” in deep waters once he arrives at the Oracle Arena in “Ward Town”—Oakland. To his credit, The Dane tout’s a record of 42-1 and a knock out percentage of 74%. To say the least, Kessler is a household name amongst the “sports constituency” in Europe, and is as polished as textbook pugilists come. Although Kessler will be the best opponent Ward has faced in his young career, this will arguably be the second best opponent Kessler has faced, the first being the legend Joe Calzaghe. The punch output, hand speed, and agility of “The Pride of Wales” confused the Viking when they met in 2007. For the same reasons, Ward will move to 21-0, while gracefully adding another loss to the Dane’s record.

In my opinion, Kessler is as good as he’ll ever be, while S.O.G. is still improving. The question is, is he good enough to defeat Kessler? I believe that answer to be yes. As long as Ward stays off of the ropes, doesn’t move straight backwards, and evades the Dane’s powerful right hand, he should win a decision in his hometown. It is my opinion, that Andre Ward has the raw talent, instincts, and adaptability to defeat any fighter in his division. Ward reminds me of an “offensive”, more graceful version of Bernard Hopkins, with the ability to fight orthodox or southpaw. These qualities alone should prove to be hard to overcome for Kessler, as Ward will not stand in one place without any head movement like Librado Andrade did when he faced the Dane in Copenhagen.

I sincerely believe we will witness art in the ring on Saturday, November 21, at the Oracle. The art I am referring to can be easily convoluted for Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers famous tune “Theme of Hard Champion”. The symbiotic relationship between Blakey’s deliberate strikes against snare’s and high-hats may echo the strikes we will witness as body blows and head shots provide violent entertainment . But let us not forget what makes the rhythm of jazz and boxing, so great. The moments, within the moments, when there is nothing but silence. Even if that silence lasts for a “hundredth” of a second. The moment before the cymbal crashes, the punch lands, or the round ends. The anticipation. The deliverance. The defining fight of what could be great champion. The moment before the winner is announced. Sublime.