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By Lyle Fitzsimmons - You’d be hard-pressed to find a boxing writer not fond of Nate Campbell.
Not only is the veteran Floridian a tough guy who’ll always provide an honest effort in the ring, but he’s also one of the most straightforward, cooperative and quotable athletes you’ll ever meet.
Which is why I was a little sad on Saturday night.
When the 38-year-old dropped a one-sided decision to Golden Boy prospect Victor Ortiz at Madison Square Garden, it got me recognizing for the first time that the “Galaxxy Warrior’s” days in the ring might indeed be numbered.
And while it’s hardly illogical to think a guy in his late 30s would be closer to the end of the line than the beginning, it seemed Campbell in last few years was one of a growing trend of fighters defying time – and actually improving – as they’ve aged.
So in spite of his vintage, that end was hardly in sight.
Until now.
Heading into the weekend it had been more than four years since his last loss – a unanimous verdict to Isaac Hlatshwayo for the IBO lightweight title in April 2006. And among the five wins since was his shining moment, a split decision over then-unbeaten Juan Diaz for the IBF, WBA and WBO straps. [Click Here To Read More]
Not only is the veteran Floridian a tough guy who’ll always provide an honest effort in the ring, but he’s also one of the most straightforward, cooperative and quotable athletes you’ll ever meet.
Which is why I was a little sad on Saturday night.
When the 38-year-old dropped a one-sided decision to Golden Boy prospect Victor Ortiz at Madison Square Garden, it got me recognizing for the first time that the “Galaxxy Warrior’s” days in the ring might indeed be numbered.
And while it’s hardly illogical to think a guy in his late 30s would be closer to the end of the line than the beginning, it seemed Campbell in last few years was one of a growing trend of fighters defying time – and actually improving – as they’ve aged.
So in spite of his vintage, that end was hardly in sight.
Until now.
Heading into the weekend it had been more than four years since his last loss – a unanimous verdict to Isaac Hlatshwayo for the IBO lightweight title in April 2006. And among the five wins since was his shining moment, a split decision over then-unbeaten Juan Diaz for the IBF, WBA and WBO straps. [Click Here To Read More]
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