No one has ever accused me of waving any pom poms for Golden Boy. But, fair is fair, and I think fight fans and critics should applaud Richard Schaefer and pals for their ballsy matchmaking for their Cinammon Boy, Mexican star Saul Alvarez. First, the Goldens were sending the unbeaten 21 year old in against formidable Paul Williams. A big KO from dangerous Paul and Alvarez’s burgeoning career could’ve been slowed or destroyed. Yet the Goldens were ready to take that risk. Williams, of course, was crippled in a motorcycle accident and GBP had to look for a suitable sub. Enter big banger James Kirkland, not as skilled as PWill, but a clear and present danger to Canelo nonetheless. Kirkland accepted the challenge but then was forced out by injury. GBP rebounded again and has now made Vicious Victor Ortiz the Mexican Independence Weekend foe in Las Vegas for Alvarez. The promoter announced the pairing on Tuesday. That match is more than worthy of respect also. It should be a great fight and a festive weekend in Vegas for all. The fight date is Sept. 15. I don’t know when GBP got this fistic fever but let’s hope it’s infectious.
