HBO Boxing: Meet JoJo Diaz
Before a live Oakland audience, Featherweight prospect, Joseph “Jojo” Diaz Jr (20-0, 11KOs) defeated perennial challenger, Jayson Velez (23-2-1, 16 KOs) by unanimous decision win.
The fight was very entertaining from the start. Diaz was able to land a ton of power punches early and I got the feeling this fight wouldn't last long. There were zero knock downs in the contest but a lot of action made it fan friendly.
This was a big test for the Golden Boy prospect, Jojo Diaz, who holds an undefeated record and looks for a title fight opportunity. Facing young-Velez was a major step up and the kid passed his test with flying colors before a national HBO audience.
Jayson Velez, who is also co-promoted by Golden Boy and Miguel Cotto Promotions, came up short in yet another title eliminator fight for the second time in his last two fights.
Most impressive trait was Diaz ability to remain calm under the big lights. He was able to land over 50% of his power punches and took control from the beginning. Even an early first round cut did not phase the young fighter's confidence.
By the 2nd round, Velez was hurt with some big power punches and the fight looked like it might be over early. Jayson Velez, tough as nails, fought back well and even though he sustained a lot of punishment he also made it a competitive 12 round contest. The scorecards showed it was a one-sided affair.
Jayson Velez's HBO record now falls to 0-2-1 in what has been a disappointing showing for the young Puerto Rican fighter. Once considered on a short list to face the biggest names a la Nicholas Walters, Garry Russell Jr and Vasyl Lomachnko -- Velez will have to back to the drawing board.
It would benefit Velez to stay with one trainer for along period of time. He needs stability and a lot of work on his defense. Velez is clearly a talented fighter and still only 27 years of age. He has a few more opportunities but his lack of power seems to hurt him against top notch opponents.
The undeniable star on this night was "Jojo" Diaz; his a fan friendly style and appearance will take him to the next level. It's only a matter of time.
On a side note: I noticed a few flaws in Diaz game that could be exploited. For example, a longer and rangier fighter might be able to successfully counter him. Someone with better foot work won't be so easily hit and it will be interesting to see how Diaz, at only 5'5" - 5'6" adjusts to a more defensive fighter. He tends to lunge forward but his quick speed bails him out. What happens when a counter puncher successfully times Diaz, it will be interesting to see how the young fighter responds.
For now the boxing world looks forward to the return of Jo Jo Diaz. He has a number of options against the likes of Ronny Rios, Abner Mares, Leo Santacruz, and Oscar Valdez to name a few. These featherweights all reign from Southern California and are draws to the Mexican American audiences. Golden Boy has a number of options for Diaz as he develops into a star and future champion.
