On a night when the ageless wonder Bernard Hopkins (54-6-3 32KOs) aims to make history?again with a presumed win over Beibut Shumenov (14-9-1 9KOs) at the staggering age of 49, stalwart Paulie Malignaggi (33-5-2 7 KOs) faces off against current IBF welterweight champion Shawn Porter (23-0-1 14 KOs) in a matchup that also pits youth vs experience.
In the latter bout, who will prevail?
It seemed like ages ago when the fighter they call ?the Magic Man? climbed through the ropes for his pro debut back in 2001.
Since then, the Brooklyn native has shared the ring with some of the best fighters of his generation including but not limited to Miguel Cotto (then 26-0), Amir Khan (then 22-1), Ricky Hatton (then 44-1), Adrien Broner (then 26-0) and Zab Judah (then 48-2).
What has been most remarkable about Malignaggi?s lengthy career is his ability to remain a top-flight pro despite his lack of explosiveness and punching power. It’s a real testament to Malignaggi’s overall skill and ring intelligence.
Malignaggi seeks to be victorious tonight but WBA Weleterweight Champion Shawn Porter has other ideas.He aims to retire the seasoned Italian-American… for good.
The tough 26 year old burst on to the scene last December when he showed great determination, physical ability and craft, ripping the IBF Welterweight title from the poised and slick Devon Alexander who was ultimately out-willed by his American counterpart. Prior to that career-defining bout, Porter was a first-rate amateur who had steadily built up an impressive unbeaten record in the paid ranks. Although his time in the pro ranks has been limited (versus Malignaggi’s), he’s not short on skill, athleticism or desire.
But will those traits be enough to get him past the experienced, more accomplished Malignaggi?
The ‘Magic Man’ seems to be having an Indian Summer and some believe Malignaggi has another good performance left in him and may be just too skilful for the new champion. Although on a night where “age” is the topic of conversation, if Malignaggi shows his age and presumed wear and tear, Shawn ?Showtime? Porter could make the Magic Man finally run out of tricks and consider hanging up his gloves in order to concentrate on his very successfully commentary position with Showtime.
When all is said and done, will both Malignaggi and Hopkins continue on their elongated trails? Will they defy logic or will Shumenov and Porter come of age and finally call an end to two everlasting eras?
