By Jake Donovan
The StubHub Center was still known as the Home Depot Center when Tim Bradley last played the venue. The memories of what transpired—particularly the pain endured in his 2013 Fight of the Year war with Ruslan Provodnikov—remain with him to this very day.
“This place brings back horrific memories for me, against Ruslan Provodnikov,” Bradley (31-1-1, 12KOs) quipped during Thursday’s pre-fight press conference for his upcoming clash versus Jessie Vargas (Saturday, HBO, 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. local time). “It’s the place where Fights of the Year are made.”
It turned out to be the best thing that happened to his career, as Bradley climbed off the canvas to score a 12-round win over Provodnikov. It was the first defense of the welterweight title he claimed in what many still consider a widely suspect decision over Manny Pacquiao more than nine months prior.
Bradley spent months shaking hate comments that came from what should’ve been a career-defining night against Pacquiao, but became an instant fan favorite following his gruesome slugfest with Provodnikov. His 2013 campaign would only get better, claiming a close but clear win over Juan Manuel Marquez later that October.
The string of tough fights continued in 2014, suffering a 12-round loss to Pacquiao in their rematch last April, followed by a 12-round draw versus Diego Chaves last December in a fight many believe he deserved the nod. All told, he’s gained a reputation as what Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum referred to as “a never-say-quit guy” who is willing to take on all comers.
He proved that in surviving a horrible start and finish in his war with Provodnikov, at a venue known for producing some of the best wars in recent history. Ahead of him this weekend is yet another tough challenge in Vargas (26-0, 9KOs), an unbeaten former 140 lb. titlist moving up in weight to contest for the vacant welterweight belt at stake in this matchup.
“Saturday night is going be a terrific night. I’m going to fight another young, hungry, determined champion,” Bradley notes. “Like I always say, bring on the best.”
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox