Boxing ain’t dead, not by a long shot

By Boxing Roundup - 07/31/2013 - Comments

‘Boxing is dead’ is a term I read, and heard, frequently in recent years. If any truth lay in that statement, 2013 proved to be boxing’s resuurection. Drama, brutality, courage and the art of boxing, 2013 provided every element, when combined, makes this the greatest sport in the world.

2013 provided many stunning nights of physical warfare. Brandon Rios and Mike Alvarado picked up where they left off, engaging in a brutal sequel. Or the ferociously contested Bradley vs Provodnikov, with breathtaking exchanges. How about Lucas Matthysse’s violent demolition of Lamont Peterson. Calculated destruction could describe Gennady Golovkin’s in ring exploits. A patient, precise, dissection of Matthew Macklin proved Golovkin requires bigger challenges sooner rather than later.

An appreciation or perhaps respect, for Floyd Mayweather, and his achievements seems to have grown in some circles. Weather this is due to the decline of Manny Pacquaio, or in ring performances is open for debate. One thing is for sure, if Floyd’s smooth performance against Robert Guerrero didn’t gain respect, a September 14th showdown with Canelo Alvarez did.

The fact Mayweather vs Alvarez was delivered, along with Rigondeaux vs Donaire, and Matthysse vs Garcia, showed a desire by promoters to make the big fights happen. No fan wants to witness another Mayweather vs Pacquaio fiasco.

Looking ahead, Timothy Bradley vs Juan Manuel Marquez, Manny Pacquiao vs Brandon Rios, Mike Alvarado vs Ruslan Provodnikov, Adrien Broner vs Marcos Maidana, Wladimir Klitschko vs Alexander Povetkin, David Haye vs Tyson Fury, are all mouthwatering bouts in sone form. Olympic stars such as Errol Spence Jr, Luke Campell, Anthony Joshua continue their new journey in the pro ranks. The highly anticipated pro debut of Vasyl Lomachenko. UK fans relishing the prospect of Tony Bellew and Darren Barker possibly lifting World titles. It is a lot to cram into six months, but i’m sure we will manage. One thing is for sure, 2013 looks to finish how it began, with a bang.