As boxing continues its never-ending search for stars to carry the sport, two up and comers will submit their cases on the big stage this Saturday, from Madison Square Garden in New York City. A win means more dates on HBO and possibly HBO PPV. A loss can relegate them as former prospects on the comeback train on basic cable.
Mikey
Garcia and Gennady Golovkin are two young fighters known only to hardcore
boxing fans. But just as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao were known only to
the initiated, Golovkin and Garcia have a chance to broaden their fan base. In
the ring, they have done no wrong. They each hold records that make any casual
fan take notice. In an era where an undefeated fighter is worth more than a
proven fighter with a few losses, they have one piece of the marketing equation
on their side.
Garcia
is another in a continual progression of Mexican-American fighters from the
West Coast to make a dent in this sport. It also helps that he comes from the
Garcia boxing family which includes former world champion and current trainer
to champions, Roberto Garcia. This lineage has put pressure on Garcia to
perform even though he has yet to falter as his level of competition has
increased.
Golovkin
is also used to success in boxing. He is a former Olympic bronze medalist and a
bit of the elder statesman in the world of boxing prospects. The 30-year old
started his pro career almost seven years ago and fought sporadically for some
years, though he never lost a fight, just a bit of time. But he has also risen
to the occasion as opponents, and the spotlight, have gotten stronger.
And
while this will not be the first time either fighter has fought for cable giant
HBO, now is the time that HBO will showcase them with the idea of taking the
training wheels off and moving them into prime-time slots against championship
caliber, or even champion opponents. For Garcia, that begins this Saturday
night.
Orlando
Salido has the type of record that makes most boxing fans dismiss him; almost
like judging a book by its cover. But an analytical look at Salido’s record
shows that he is one of the best fighter’s in the super featherweight division.
Since
losing to Yuriorkis Gamboa by a decision, Salido has stopped all opponents
including former undefeated power puncher Juan “Juanma” Manuel Lopez; in Lopez’
hometown both times. Salido can be outboxed as Gamboa proved and he can be
dropped as Lopez also proved in their rematch. However, as Salido has proven to
both Lopez and Gamboa, he will be there until the end vying for victory. This
is as hard a test for any up-and-coming fighter. Garcia will either shine or
tarnish in this fight.
Golovkin’s
test is actually more like a spotlight to highlight the immense talent he
brings. Golovkin, who has said he will fight Mayweather and champion in
recovery Andre Ward, has a lighter test than the one Garcia will face this
Saturday. But lighter does not mean easier. In Gabriel Rosado, Golovkin will
find a streaking fighter who has only been stopped once (by then undefeated
Alfredo Angulo) and only knows one way to fight; head on. This will suit
Golovkin fine as he only fights coming forward as well. Both fighters will let
the leather fly in a fight that will surely end inside the distance.
All in
all, while a win is mandatory in this era of glossy records it is also not
enough. With so many other sports readily available on endless channels,
entertainment value is highly prized in the day of digital entertainment everywhere.
Fans must have a reason to watch a fight. Well, this Saturday night they have
two new reasons to tune in.
