By David Math – Librado Andrade deserves a shout-out. In a Super-Middleweight Division that’s been dominated by Joe Calzaghe – with Mikkel Kessler just a few steps behind – Librado Andrade has been a forgotten gem in this division. What he lacks in natural ability he makes up for in relentless effort and unbridled optimism. With an absolute iron-will, an unbelievable chin, and unrivaled heart/class, Andrade trots into the ring with the beaming spirit of a warrior who loves the combat he engages so much – that he seemingly would consider it an honor to die in the ring..
Andrade got a lot of people’s attention when he fought Mikkel Kessler – who absolutely dominated and outclassed Andrade from a pure skill/talent level standpoint – but was nonetheless unable to break Andrade’s iron-will optimism. Even though Andrade was being rained on with monstrous Kessler combinations – never was he discouraged – and he fought with every ounce of his energy until the very last second.
The bout with Kessler his only loss. Aside from that fight – he’s dominated steady competition – including a recent knockout over Russian prospect Sergej Stieglitz – who many regarded as the better boxer.
Andrade’s performance against Bute Friday night was something remarkable. Bute, clearly the purer boxer, was winning rounds in relative dominant fashion from a technical standpoint – but similar to the Cotto/Margarito classic – you got the feeling that Bute was being worn down by the Mexican predator – who despite getting hit with numerous flush combinations – wasn’t halted at all in his stalking posturing, hunting for the knockout with wide-opened eyes wired and fixated on the opponent in front of him.
Prior to the 12th round – Andrade’s corner told him he needed the knock out – and that he had to “knock
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vz0x7Tkhd0
Andrade deserved to win this fight with his heroic performance – and it’s an absolute black-eye on the sport that local boxing politics manipulated this bout and gave Bute the unwarranted victory…. everyone who saw that fight – even Bute’s fans – knows Andrade deserved the knockout victory – and referee Marlon B. Wright should be suspended indefinitely for his cowardice and lack of integrity/judgment at such a crucial moment.
Librado Andrade — we see you…and we appreciate you.
Even in defeat – Andrade’s enthusiasm wasn’t broken as he responded to the post-fight interview with a smile after being questioned on the controversial robbery – saying “I know I won the fight. He was out” with a type of confident conviction telling you that he wasn’t going to let a debauchery of a boxing blunder/political mishap taint his warrior poetry – his hard-earned victory – his glory.
Here’s to a rematch with Bute — this time on a neutral canvas.