So, I previously mentioned time will tell if Seth Mitchell might be the next formidable American heavyweight to make a legitimate push for a title and possibly take the throne from Wladimir Klitschko. Unfortunately, it appears he was no more than hype. Seth Mitchell’s jaw did not stand up to the somewhat unknown Johnathon Banks, who dropped Mitchell three times in the second round to end the fight last night in Atlantic City. One punch can change things in heavyweight fights, which is what has historically made the weight class so intriguing over the years (see Buster Douglas knocking out Mike Tyson in Tokyo in 1990).
Subsequently, in this one, the punches dropping Mitchell were not necessarily remarkable, but rather it appeared he just has a glass jaw and is another American hopeful who joins a long list of tomato cans over the last decade. Meanwhile, in honor of the late Emanuel Steward (July 7, 1944 – October 25, 2012), after Banks stepped in for Steward to train Wladimir Klitschko for his fight a week ago, Banks went from trainer to possible opponent for Klitschko in 2013 with last night’s victory. Pretty ironic and uplifting to say the least, as I am sure it was a very emotional time for Banks who will likely hold last night’s knockout as close to his heart as he holds his mentor (Steward). America’s next best heavyweight, WHERE ARE YOU! Could it be Banks? Again, time will tell, but I don’t see it.
Headlining the card last night at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Adrien Broner proved to be too much for Antonio Demarco, stopping Demarco in the 8th round and earning the WBC lightweight belt. Broner started off slow, but as usual, proved to be too much with his slick Mayweather-like defense and sharp punching. Broner dominated the fight with great inside punching and uppercuts, sending Demarco to the canvass in the 8th causing his corner to waive the towel. Make sure to hit up Broner on Instagram or Twitter so he can tell you all about it.