By: Jake Stein
Danny Garcia vs. Zab Judah – 12 rounds for Garcia’s WBC/WBA junior welterweight title @ Brooklyn, N.Y.
“Substance over style”
In this clash, undefeated Philadelphia native Danny Garcia (25-0) faces boxing veteran Zab Judah (42-7) at the Barclays Center in New York. Expect the younger Garcia to punish Judah early and often. At 35 years of age, Judah’s speed, footwork, and power are not what they once were, but he does have experience in his favor. The bout was originally set to be held on February 9, but has since been rescheduled due to a rib injury sustained by Garcia during training. Judah’s game plan should be to exploit Garcia’s tender rib cage and viciously attack the body. However, Garcia may have the edge both physically and mentally in this fight. Garcia KO’d Amir Khan after 4 rounds in July ’12 and Khan previously KO’d Judah in 5 rounds back in July ’11. Garcia’s WBC/WBA junior welterweight titles are on the line.
Peter Quillin vs. Fernando Guerrero – 12 rounds for Quillin’s WBO middleweight title
“Bombs Away”
Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (28-0) squares off against southpaw Fernando Guerrero (25-1). The contrast in stances could present issues for Quallin if his defensive posture fades throughout the match. At 5’11”, Quillin maintains both a height and reach advantage as well as knock out power in both hands over Guerrero who is 5’9”. Quillin must utilize these weapons to his advantage and fire the jab to effectively neutralize Guerrero’s attack. 4-time trainer of the year Freddie Roach can yet again silence his critics with a convincing win for his fighter Quillin against Guerrero.
Amir Khan vs. Julio Diaz – 12 rounds, welterweight @ Sheffield, England
“Speed Kills”
In this fight out of Sheffield, England, Briton Amir “King” Khan (27-3) faces Julio “The Kidd” Diaz (40-7-1). Under new trainer Virgil Hunter, Khan is once again confident, sporting a TKO 10th round victory against previously undefeated fighter Carlos Molina in Dec ’12. Khan’s chin has been tested before and Diaz will no doubt go headhunting for the KO win. Khan needs to use his brilliant hand speed and technically sound footwork to counterpunch and pivot out of danger. He cannot afford to stand toe to toe and trade blows with the experienced Diaz. Look for Khan to be the busier fighter and cruise his way to victory in this one.