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In a year when the purchase price of a boxing pay-per-view increased significantly and disappointing main event results have become a norm, an event that began as a glimmer has gone super nova. Antonio Margarito and Miguel Cotto, two warriors of the pugilist variety face-off in a rematch of one of last decades most memorable battles which ended in a brutal 11th round TKO; snapping Cotto’s unbeaten streak. The event features fighters that vehemently hate each other, and adds another chapter to the Mexico versus Puerto Rico rivalry. As if that were not enough, controversy exists which questions the legitimacy of Margarito’s victory in 2008; his reputation has been tainted, by a scandal which has led many to believe the boxer used illegal substances to load his hand wraps.
In one corner, stands a proud Mexican warrior with an opportunity to redeem his honor, he has boldly stated “I will die in the ring, rather than yield”. Across the ring stands the reigning WBA Super Welterweight Champion, a man who seeks revenge and justice, adored by his Puerto Rican brethren, most of whom also support his assertion that his defeat in 2008 was the result of a nefarious act involving plaster of Paris. Boxing experts claim that both men are past their prime, while others have become so blinded by undefeated records and skilled technicians they fail to appreciate fighters not named Floyd or Manny. As much as I love and appreciate a chess match, my inner boxing fan yearns for the next barnburner.
Many people have asked me for my prediction, and although I have a favorite, perhaps a very tough fictional boxer put it best when he predicted “Pain”. This Saturday evening on HBO pay-per-view before a sold out Madison Square Garden; the world will finally witness a fight where the storyline requires no fabrication to create drama, and losing is not an option. And just to make the day full proof, the undercard has been stacked with 3 additional excellent matchups featuring rising stars: Mike Jones, Brandon Rios, and Paul Wolak. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors; but most of all “Get your popcorn ready”.
In one corner, stands a proud Mexican warrior with an opportunity to redeem his honor, he has boldly stated “I will die in the ring, rather than yield”. Across the ring stands the reigning WBA Super Welterweight Champion, a man who seeks revenge and justice, adored by his Puerto Rican brethren, most of whom also support his assertion that his defeat in 2008 was the result of a nefarious act involving plaster of Paris. Boxing experts claim that both men are past their prime, while others have become so blinded by undefeated records and skilled technicians they fail to appreciate fighters not named Floyd or Manny. As much as I love and appreciate a chess match, my inner boxing fan yearns for the next barnburner.
Many people have asked me for my prediction, and although I have a favorite, perhaps a very tough fictional boxer put it best when he predicted “Pain”. This Saturday evening on HBO pay-per-view before a sold out Madison Square Garden; the world will finally witness a fight where the storyline requires no fabrication to create drama, and losing is not an option. And just to make the day full proof, the undercard has been stacked with 3 additional excellent matchups featuring rising stars: Mike Jones, Brandon Rios, and Paul Wolak. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors; but most of all “Get your popcorn ready”.
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