While arriving to the Thomas and Mack Saturday evening there was a strong crowd of proud Latin Americans. You can hear “Maravilla” fans chanting “Y lo ya ve, Y lo ya ve, somos locales otra vez.” And the Chavez Jr. fans “Mexico! Mexico!” I was rooting for Martinez but I was ready for a robbery.
When the main event started I was literally shaking, Being a Sergio Martinez fan for the longest, I’ve been waiting for this fight to happen. This it, it was Doomsday. From all the bad mouthing and words exchanged with Martinez and Chavez Jr., everyone knew it was going to be war. From the opening bell to the 11th round it was all Martinez. It was clear Chavez Jr. was not willing to open up to Sergio and to be honest he looked scared looking like a glorified club fighter. This was a sparring session. I was in awe with Martinez’s amazing footwork, speed, and skills. Whoever doubted him because of his age should bite their tongue. When the final bell rang Martinez fans were already celebrating and those last 1:20 seconds was a nightmare. When Chavez knocked Martinez down and that slip I nearly had a heart attack and thought to myself “Wow its over.” But Martinez had too much heart to quit.
I don’t agree with them having a rematch because it took Chavez Jr. 12 rounds, and fights 15+ lbs heavier than Sergio to finally land something meaningful. After watching HBO 24/7 and watching the fight over again on TV, what I observed from Chavez Jr. is a very arrogant young man. The lack of commitment when he dismissed Freddie Roach on Episode 2 and training on his own terms, sorry there’s a reason why there are boxing gyms. A humble character is a vital component for achieving success in all areas of life.
Chavez Jr. has talent but lacks humility. I’m sure he’ll be a champion again but he needs mental maturing. I know it’s a little harsh, but Martinez kept his word. Chavez Jr.’s face was not recognizable.