Tonight will be HBO’s first major boxing card of 2014, featuring an exciting double-header led by Mexican superstar Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., who will try to repair his reputation in a rematch with plucky challenger Bryan Vera. Right before that bout, fast-rising Vasyl Lomachenko, receiving a title shot in just his second pro fight, will take on Orlando Salido. The card begins at 9:45 p.m. and can be watched on HBO, or live streamed by clicking this link.
Chavez Jr. is no doubt helped by his name, and the reputation that comes with being the son of a legend. Questions abound about Chavez Jr.’s dedication to the sport though, he’s already been hit with a drug suspension, and his true skill level.
In the biggest fight of his career he was outclassed by Sergio Martinez for 11 rounds before flooring him in the 12th. Martinez survived it though, and the narrative became that Chavez Jr. was “overrated.” He did himself no favors when he was overweight for his bounce-back fight vs. Bryan Vera, whom many felt had no chance.
He outworked a slow Chavez Jr., who appeared allergic to combinations, and eventually lost a questionable decision that was roundly booed. Now, though, the legend’s son is out to prove he truly wants to excel at the sweet science.
"I will make the 168 pound limit with no problem and I will be able to do the things I could not do in first fight," Chavez said. "I will have better movement, I will be more consistent and I will fight 12 hard rounds if that is what it takes to win this second fight. Vera is a tough guy with a good chin, but I will do my best to send him home early."
The other fight is intriguing, with Vasyl Lomachenko receiving a title fight so quickly after a scintillating debut. He debuted in October 2013, putting down Jose Ramirez in the fourth round. He was so impressive, and has such an extensive amateur pedigree, that he was handed a shot at Orlando Salido’s WBO 126-lb. title.
Salido has failed to make weight, much like Chavez Jr. before him, but Top Rank CEO Bob Arum doesn’t seem angry with him. Because of that, Lomachenko can still take the strap, but Salido will lose it even if he wins.
He couldn't make the weight," Arum said. "When they get older (Salido is 33), taking the last few pounds off is sometimes impossible. He really tried. He's not a screw-up. They brought a doctor in (earlier Friday) and the doctor said if they forced him below 128 pounds there could be serious repercussions and dehydration. So he pays the fine, gives up the title and will make the best fight he can."
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