“Dinamita” holds workout in L.A.
The countdown is ticking for this weekend’s big showdown between Juan Manuel Marquez (51-5-1, 37 KOs) and Michael Katsidis (27-2, 22 KOs) as the two face off in “Warriors: Marquez vs. Katsidis” at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Both gladiators are set to make their grand entrances this afternoon as their fans and loyal subjects await their exciting arrivals.
This marquee matchup presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Marquez Boxing Promotions has the boxing world buzzing; with these two pugilists you can expect plenty of thrills and fireworks inside the ropes. Marquez, nicknamed “Dinamita,” held a media workout yesterday at the Trinity Boxing Club in West Hollywood. In the old-school style gym decorated with vintage gloves and boxing shoes hanging from the rafters, a large crowd showed up to hear what the Mexico City pugilist had to say. In the wall-to-wall crush of bodies, the 37-year-old remained relaxed, humble and easy going amidst the nonstop barrage of questions from the assembled journalists and photographers gathered at the scene.
As always in championship fights, there’s a lot riding on this matchup airing on HBO. For WBA and WBO Lightweight titlist Marquez, a victory will further ensure his legacy amongst the top elite Mexican warriors. For WBO interim Lightweight Champ Katsidis, 30, a “make it or break it” win for this Australian brawler would catapult him further in the game.
With American boxing fans celebrating a long Thanksgiving weekend, this highly-anticipated collision is one the “weekend warriors and armchair athletes” are certainly thankful for.
“It’s a tough fight; he’s a good fighter,” commented Marquez during the media workout. “Styles make fights; and he throws a lot of punches.”
One important factor in the fight is that Katsidis “The Great,” known for his walkout in a Greek helmet, will be battling for more than just another victory. His older brother, jockey Stathi Katsidis, died on October 19, and there is no doubt that the Aussie puncher will dig deep to honor his late brother, whom he was very close to.
Also vying for the unified world championship, expect nothing less than 100% from these two tough boxers. It will not lack of action.
Will it be a Katsidis-style bloody brawl?
Or will the older, wiser veteran Marquez school his opponent in the sweet science?
This one certainly has boxing circles buzzing.
Marquez’ famed trainer Nacho Beristain praised his fighter’s work ethic and dedication, saying the lightweight champ “does whatever it takes to win.” If he were to ask him to get up and run in the middle of the night, he’d do it. As fans saw Juan Manuel’s last match against Juan Diaz, there’s still plenty of “Dinamita” in this beloved boxer.
As he shadowboxed, jumproped, hit the speed bag and heavy bag, Marquez proves age is just a number.
At 37, the pound-for-pound superstar stays on top of his game. With other time-tested veterans like Glen Johnson, 41, Bernard Hopkins, 45, Shane Mosley, 39, and the Brothers Klitschko at ages 39 (Vitali) and 34 (Wladimir), still competing in championship bouts, age is not necessarily a deciding factor for Juan Manuel Marquez. And if you saw the stunning and shocking second round knockout of the feared Paul Williams by 35-year-old Sergio Martinez, these conditioned and athletically-gifted athletes continue to thrive and win in the ring.
So with bellies full from their Thanksgiving feasts, boxing fans will give thanks as they get ready to watch November end with a bang.
Weigh in, folks.
WHO WILL WIN–“Dinamita” or Katsidis “The Great”?
Tickets: www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com
Photos by Gene Blevins-Hoganphotos/Golden Boy Promotions