Text Edward Chaykovsky, Interview by Chris Robinson

In the month of December, two new welterweight champions were crowned. Shawn Porter (23-0-1, 14KOs) upset Devon Alexander with a twelve round decision to capture the IBF title, and Marcos Maidana (35-3, 31KOs) pulled off one of the biggest shockers of the year with a twelve round unanimous decision over Adrien Broner to capture the WBA's version of the welterweight puzzle.

Former champion Julio Diaz, who faced Porter twice, likes his former opponent's chances against Maidana.

"I think he matches up very good, because of his style. Like a Maidana, [Porter's style of fighting] will help him. He can take punch, he's a solid guy and he's a fresh fighter. A guy like Maidana, if he's not able to hurt a Shawn Porter, then Shawn Porter will win the rounds. He is not an explosive puncher, but he is solid guy and he will rough you up and will push you around. I think he matches up very good," Diaz said.