After a stellar weekend in the sport that featured two top-10 fights of the year in Gonzalez/Cuadras and Easter/Commey, this Saturday highlights the many issues in boxing. On one hand you have a pay-per-view bout not worthy of its price tag (64.99). On the other you have a great matchup with limited exposure in the U.S.
It’s never a good thing when fans are debating the number of potential PPV buys instead of the actual fight in the ring. For years now boxing fans have steadily been forced in to a corner with a feeling they have no other option but to stream. Can you blame them with all the mismatches on premium cable and PPV?
Between HBO’s across the board budget cuts sent down from Time Warner and a few horribly wasted main events, has made for a tough year in the sport. When HBO struggles to produce quality product it hurts boxing in many ways, as we know in many instances perception becomes reality and all of the sports shortcomings get highlighted.
What burns fans even more is the fact that Canelo has already had his showcase fight on PPV in May versus Amir Khan. Now Golden Boy gives us yet another pay-fight against Liam Smith, an inexperienced belt holder from the UK. This is not a shot at Liam but rather a dig at Oscar and HBO. Now we’re hearing that Canelo is fighting on normal HBO in December, possibly against a better opponent (don’t hold your breath for BJ Saunders). So let me get this straight, we have to pay for a Liam Smith fight but will get a better fight which will be included in are subscription in December? Isn’t that putting the cart before the horse?
Anyway, as far as the action in the ring, expect Smith to be game for a good chunk of the early rounds. Smith is aggressive behind a high-guard and will not be afraid to exchange with Canelo. Liam has a good jab and likes to throw lead right hands. At times he gets a bit wide with his punches, especially the left hook. Head movement will be crucial and if all else fails Smith’s chin will likely be the true measurement for how long this contest lasts.
Canelo generally takes his time to dissect an opponent opting to apply pressure only after he has found his range. Alvarez’s is a very solid jabber who can dig to the body and finish to the head. Sure, Alvarez will have some rough spots but once he finds his groove he should win cleanly. Here’s hoping that Liam Smith is better than most think he is.
My official prediction is Canelo Alvarez by late technical-stoppage.
Written by Chris Carlson Host of The Rope A Dope Radio Podcast at blogtalkradio.com/ropeadoperadio or Download on iTunes
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