Miguel Vasquez vs. Mickey Bey
Vasquez fighting on a Mayweather card?? Surely Top Rank would never let this barnburner of a champion go. This is an intriguing fight, however, because Vasquez has been unbeatable for years at 135, if also unsellable. Bey's only loss came when he was well ahead, and power is not likely to be a threat here. Still it is hard to pick against Vasquez, especially against a fighter who has failed to wow us before. Vasquez by close SD.
Lucas Matthysse vs., Roberto Ortiz
Matthysse's struggles with John Molina had more to do with the chin and toughness and power of Molina, than with any diminishing on the part of the Argentine. However, Ortiz has been a longtime Silver champion at this weight. Whatever that means. His record shows many capable opponents, but no big names. Still, it is a risky enough fight for Matthysse. He is vulnerable, and Ortiz is motivated. Still, a man with his power is hard to bet against, especially when you know his opponent has not yet faced any power like his. Molina by late TKO, coming from behind.
Wladimir Klitschko vs. Kubrat Pulev
Believe it or not, Pulev is the man whose boxing skills I am most impressed with for a Klitschko opponent in a long time. Haye had power, which made up for other deficiencies, and Pulev cannot rely on that. Am I picking Pulev? No, I am not that brave. Klitschko has been so dominant that I can't pick against him. But if there is a fighter who has a chance of having a lead when he is stopped, I'd pick Kubrat. Klitschko by mid rounds TKO, after actually losing a few rounds. That right hand should land against the southpaw cleanly at some point.
SEPTEMBER BOXING PREDICTIONS PART 1
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com
