by Kirk Jackson
Adrien Broner 28-1 (22 KO’s) continues his quest for redemption and seeks to re-establish himself amongst boxing’s elite fighters, as he takes on tough contender Emmanuel Taylor 18-2 (12 KO’s)this Saturday, September 6th.
Photo: Mark Zerof – Hoganphotos/Golden Boy Promotions
Broner, 25, headlines this Showtime event as it takes place in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, at the U.S. Bank Arena.
The self proclaimed “ The Problem,” truly is one of boxing’s most colorful personalities. Never one to shy away from controversy, whether it’s trash-talking and harshly insulting opponents, making sex tapes, creating and speaking new languages “Bronish,” Adrien certainly knows how to draw attention.
But come this Saturday, Broner cannot rely on his colorful personality to win his fight against Taylor.
Instead of speaking “Bronish” he needs to speak and deal out ”Punishment.”
As much attention as Broner receives, the reality is a majority of boxing fans and casual viewers cannot not stand the guy.
Many think he is obnoxious, arrogant, has more style than substance and can’t wait to see him lose again.
A consequence when deciding to play the role of the villain; following in the foot steps of the late Hector “Macho” Camacho and the man Broner refers to as his big brother, Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Adrien Broner truly is an entertainer.
But underneath that layer of cockiness, resides a fighter who possesses a wide range of athleticism and boxing talent.
Accomplishing the impressive feat of capturing three world titles across three different weight divisions at the young age of 24, is an indicator that the particular fighter not only has the potential, but also the will to be great.
It may all just be a matter of maturity and attaining a higher level of concentration to train more effectively and improve as a fighter.
Broner still has a lot to prove to the critics. Especially since his defeat at the hands of Marcos Maidana 35-4 (29 KO’s) last December.
Broner made a triumphant return this past May, against Carlos Molina 17-2-1 (7 KO’s), but there are still flaws in Adrien’s game that need to be addressed. His lack of consistent lateral movement and punch output remain as troublesome issues.
These problems must be resolved if he plans on standing a chance against the better fighters in the junior welterweight (140) division.
Danny Garcia, Lucas Matthysse, Lamont Peterson all are gifted fighters and stake claim as the who’s who of that division.
If Broner were to move up to welterweight and seek revenge against Maidana in a rematch, Robert Guerrero, Kell Brook, Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, Amir Khan, Manny Pacquiao, among a few others in this deep division, all stand as obstacles for Broner.
He needs to improve and make adjustments to his style in order to stand a chance.
Perhaps Broner can use Emmanuel Taylor as a step towards progression, because if he loses this fight against a guy he is supposed to beat and dominate, his time as a headliner and main boxing attraction may be over.
Can you imagine the amount of embarrassment and scrutiny Broner would face if he lost to Taylor? In his hometown as the main attraction? This is a must win for Broner.