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by Cliff Rold - The statistics are impressive. The reality varies.
In his last outing, Argentina’s Omar Narvaez became the first man to post ten or more title defenses in two different weight divisions, knocking out Antonio Garcia in four rounds. The statistic was impressive.
The reality was less so.
Garcia, then 13-1, didn’t provide much test, a trend through too much of Narvaez’s title reigns at 112 and 115 lbs. It’s been more the case in the latter. Aging, if still able, Narvaez has rarely sought much in the way of challenges since his sole loss via decision to Nonito Donaire. That outing, an attempt to add a title at 118 lbs., is recalled for its passive surrender.
It was too bad. At his best, Narvaez has and still can be a quality fighter. He’s not been around this long because he isn’t good.
The lone exception in terms of serious threats since Donaire came in May 2013. With the sage advice of legendary trainer Nacho Beristain to guide him, Mexico’s Felipe Orucuta took Narvaez to the brink. Many thought he’d done enough to win. He settled for a split decision defeat.
Orucuta’s second chance arrives Friday night (TyC, 9 PM EST). Narvaez came within one of tying the record for consecutive Flyweight title defenses. He’s still nine away from matching the Jr. Bantamweight mark set by Hall of Famer Khaosai Galaxy. Standing today at 27 victories in title fights, he’s four shy of tying Julio Cesar Chavez for the most ever. [Click Here To Read More]
In his last outing, Argentina’s Omar Narvaez became the first man to post ten or more title defenses in two different weight divisions, knocking out Antonio Garcia in four rounds. The statistic was impressive.
The reality was less so.
Garcia, then 13-1, didn’t provide much test, a trend through too much of Narvaez’s title reigns at 112 and 115 lbs. It’s been more the case in the latter. Aging, if still able, Narvaez has rarely sought much in the way of challenges since his sole loss via decision to Nonito Donaire. That outing, an attempt to add a title at 118 lbs., is recalled for its passive surrender.
It was too bad. At his best, Narvaez has and still can be a quality fighter. He’s not been around this long because he isn’t good.
The lone exception in terms of serious threats since Donaire came in May 2013. With the sage advice of legendary trainer Nacho Beristain to guide him, Mexico’s Felipe Orucuta took Narvaez to the brink. Many thought he’d done enough to win. He settled for a split decision defeat.
Orucuta’s second chance arrives Friday night (TyC, 9 PM EST). Narvaez came within one of tying the record for consecutive Flyweight title defenses. He’s still nine away from matching the Jr. Bantamweight mark set by Hall of Famer Khaosai Galaxy. Standing today at 27 victories in title fights, he’s four shy of tying Julio Cesar Chavez for the most ever. [Click Here To Read More]
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