Looking Ahead at the Fights this Week

By Grey Johnson

25.06 - Well, since this is my first column at Eastside Boxing, I probably should introduce myself. My name is Grey Johnson, and I've been a huge fan of the sweet science for a couple of years now, and I jumped at the chance to write down my views about the sport. I will analyize upcoming fights in each column, and I'll put in my two cents about any important topic that comes up in the future. Well, onto the fights:

Wladimir Klitschko (38-1) vs. Ray Mercer (30-4-1)

Obviously, this is the most important fight of the week, and it features one of the best heavyweights in the world against 87 year old Ray Mercer. C'mon folks, you think Mercer has that much of a chance??? The man has beaten six bums in six years. His last real fight was in 1998 against a post-prime Tim Witherspoon. Watching some of Ray's recent fights, he has shown that his chin and jab are still above average, but the fact that lowly Bryan Scott gave him problems is not a good sign. Wlad should have little diffculty in handling Mercer, but don't be surprised if this goes the distance. Mercer is a proven warrior, and if he is stopped, it will be on his feet of course. As long as Wlad comes in focused, I can't see him losing.

Also on the card is 2000 Hungarian Olympian Zsolt Erdei (10-0) against Darren Whitley (12-17-6). I've heard some good things about Erdei, and he'll be tested against Whitley, who is much better than his record presents him to be (3-1-1 in his last five, has only been stopped once in his career). Anthony Thompson (3-0) and Freddie Cadena (11-0), who are also on the card, are ones to watch in the future.

Guty Espadas (35-4) vs. Hector Velasquez (33-9-1)

Well can you believe it, ESPN has THREE televised cards this week! Tuesday Night Fights will feature former world champion Guty Espadas in his second fight back since a stunning defeat to William Abelyan. His opponent, Hector Velasquez, is experienced, but has lost twice recently when he has stepped up in class. Look for Guty to pick up a needed win, a stepping stone for a possible rematch with Erik Morales.

Antwun Echols (27-4-1) vs. Oscar Bravo (16-1)

Ah yes, Echols, one of my favorite fighters, is in action this week. He'll take on little-known Oscar Bravo. This fight is no contest. Echols and Bravo are in two different leagues. Look for Bravo to submit to Echols' power very quickly in the fight.

J.C Candelo (25-4-3) vs. Alfred Ankamah (20-8)

Candelo is a top contender at 154, and returning after a loss to Angel Hernandez. His opponenet, Alfred Ankamah, has been off more than a year, but has had strange results. Some have been good (knockout wins over Kirino Garcia and Tito Mendoza) and some terrible (loss to 7-25-3 Juan Carlos Barreto). We'll see how Alfred responds to the long layoff, but either way, expect Candelo to win via the knockout.

Angel Hernandez (22-2) vs. Larry Marks (22-5)

I'm surpised to see Larry Marks has another chance at possibly beating a good opponent. After putting me to sleep with his fight against Corey Spinks, he'll battle Angel Hernandez for the NABF 154 pound title. Hernandez has shown himself to be more than a fringe contender with his win over Candelo, while Marks has been solid....as an opponent. He has lost to every good fighter he has fought (Six Heads Lewis, Spinks, Michael Covington). Put two and two together, and it should be a workman-like decision for Hernandez.

Dana Rosenblatt (37-1-1) vs. Juan Carlos Viloria (23-16-1)

Hey boys and girls, it's Dana Rosenblatt back in the ring after a year and a half absence. You think his opponent will offer resistance??? Please.

ALSO IN ACTION THIS WEEK: Teddy Reid, Hugo Dianzo,Wilfredo Vasquez, Julio Gonzalez, and Bruce Scott.

Er....that's it from me. My thoughts and prayers go out to Pedro Alcazar and his family.
Have a good week, and enjoy Wlad vs. Old Man Mercer.