By Michael "Scoops" Doss

Golden Boy Promotions president Oscar De La Hoya expects a tough give and take battle on January 28th, when Erik Morales (52-7, 36KOs) defends his WBC junior welterweight title against undefeated Danny Garcia (22-0, 14KOs) at the Reliant Arena in Houston, Texas.

Morales, at age 35 and a former champion in three lower divisions, is battle tested and by far the more experienced fighter. Garcia is younger and possibly faster, and takes a big step up in class. De La Hoya does not expect a knockout. He expects a fight that lasts the twelve round distance.

"It's going to be a tough fight for Erik and for Danny. It reminds me of when I fought [Julio Cesar] Chavez in 1996. I was the young guy and he was the legend. Morales has the experience, he's been in there against the best, he was the last guy to beat Manny Pacquiao. Danny is a strong puncher and he's going to keep on coming at Morales. For me it's a toss-up. I don't think Danny will knock out Erik Morales and I don't think Morales will knock out Danny. I think it goes the twelve round distance," De La Hoya said.