Mendez looked hurt with every single punch Barthelemy threw... he was lucky to get an NC because he was getting KTFO'd it was just a question of when. Unless he's had a titanium chin implant or plans to run all night long this can only go one way.
I think Mendez had trouble making weight last time, that's why he was getting hurt. He is a huge super featherweight yet he was 128.5 at the weigh-in. He must have weakened his body cutting too much weight. This time he came in at 129.8. Barthelemy can punch a little, but he's not a big puncher, and Mendez had at least shown a decent chin in the past. I'm not 100% sure, but I think something was off with Mendez that night.
I expect this rematch to go the distance. Barthelemy needs to stay on the outside, use his jab and let Mendez initiate the actions. Mendez is not comfortable when he has to come forward.
Mendez's chin isn't all that hot to begin with in my opinion. I've definitely seen him stunned/buzzed before and I feel like that, coupled with his inconsistent stamina, make him a sure bet to get KTFO sooner rather than later. It's a shame because I love all his other skills.
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