by Kirk Jackson
Controversy would be the key word used to describe the fight between Erislandy Lara and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.
The clash of styles created a razor thin close fight, subjective on how one scores a round.
Clean punching, eye catching punches, defensive prowess, lateral movement vs. effective body punching, power punching, consistent pressure, signs of a fighter actively seeking to make the fight.
Many fans voiced their displeasure of Lara’s “running,” although some fans can appreciate Lara’s defensive approach to the fight.
Although this resulted in a close competitive fight, resulting with both fighters looking good because they were able to display their talents, the casual fan may have been put off by the fight due to the lack of these respective fighters bashing their brains inside out.
With that in mind, why would Alvarez, the winner by split decision, give Lara a rematch?
In recent years, we’ve witnessed memorable rematches between boxing’s best, with Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez fighting many times in one of boxing’s most historic rivalries. Same can be said for Pacquiao and Erik Morales.
Floyd Mayweather gave Jose Luis Castillo a rematch after many spectators felt Mayweather was wrongfully awarded the victory.
Mayweather is giving Marcos Maidana a rematch after their closely contested fight earlier this year.
Diego Corrales and Joel Casamayor had a competitive three fight series and Corrales had a three fight series with Jose Luis Castillo as well.
Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito come to mind, and who could forget the Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward wars.
There was a public outcry for all of these rematches. Financial incentive as well.
In reference to Lara and Alvarez, the hardcore fan wouldn’t mind watching those two go at it again. But it’s probable the casual fan doesn’t want this match-up.
And if you’re Alvarez, why fight a tough opponent with no real incentive? Especially considering he did not have to fight Lara the first time.
As a fan I applaud Alvarez for taking the fight against the best opposition available, which happens to be the guy he just beat Lara. That’s all we can really ask for from these star fighters.
Canelo is doing the right move from a economical sense by moving on from fighting Lara. He already has the narrow victory and keep in mind he has bigger fish to fry.
Miguel Cotto in particular. Too many dollar signs to pass on that opportunity. The head of Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya, will probably see to it that the Cotto vs. Alvarez fight happens. He didn’t want his red-haired star fighting Lara in the first place.