Matthysse Proves Again To Be Most Exciting Fighter in Boxing
April 27, 2014
By Brian Posada
In what was supposed to be a tune up fight for the Argentine slugger, Lucas Matthysse (35-3, 33 KO’s), going up against hard hitter and Southern California native, John Molina (27-4, 21 KO’s), this match ended up being a fight of the year candidate.
Ask the current 140 pound champion, Danny Garcia, about tune-up fights going bad. Garcia was fortunate to escape with a victory against Riverside’s journeyman, Mauricio Herrera, in early March. The heavily favored champ scored a narrow win keeping his perfect record in-tact.
Both Matthysse and Molina on the other hand still have a lot to prove in the 140 pound division. The are both 31 years old, both known for their power and very driven to be the top fighter in the world. All qualities that helped make this a great fight.
Matthysse carried on his tradition of starting slow, while Molina took full advantage landing big shots in the early rounds. After a second round knockdown Matthysse looked stunned as the fans erupted the packed StubHub Center. Matthysse's power also appeared to have little effect thanks to Molina’s superb chin.
By the fifth round, Molina had already scored two knock downs and was up big on the scorecards. The second knock down appeared to be a gift from the referee as it was clearly a blow to the back of the head which staggered Molina off balance more than anything.
The heavily Southern California crowd cheered on Molina who looked poised for his second major upset in three fights (the last against Mickey Bey, an undefeated TMT, Floyd Mayweather promoted fighter). As the fight wore on however, Matthysse was able to finally find his rythym. He channeled his anger and frustration into pin point accuracy and started landing more power punches than Molina as the fight went on.
By the sixth round Matthysse pushed the gas pedal. Perhaps Molina fighting at 140 pounds for the first time had its effects. Also, a nasty clash of heads bloodied both fighters with every punch landed. Fight fans got what they certainly paid for in an all-out war!
During the 10th round changeover a small confrontation ensued between Goosen – Molina’s trainer – and the ring-side doctor who was threatening to stop the fight due to excessive punishment. While Goosen was arguing, Molina could have used some well-timed advice on how to last two more rounds. Instead, Mattyhsse capitalized at the start of the 11th and put down Molina one more time, for good.
In what has been the best comeback of year, Matthysse proved why is in the running for all titles in the 140 pound division. He dug deep for this win, a true sign of a champion. Danny Garcia needs to watch out because these are character building fights. Matthysse will be more ready than last year to take back his crown.
As for the excitement factor, many in the boxing world say Ruslan Provodnikov gets that award. I would have to disagree. Matthyssee is an executioner who brings it every time! He's been doing it for his last five or six fights too. DSG, at 28-0, is the only fighter to have stood in there and narrowly escaped with a victory. One thing is for sure, more Matthysse for boxing is a great thing. Viva the Argentine Executioner!
