When fighters enter the ring for a third time against their hated arch rival, a drama is created — one that is unequaled in any other sport. For fans, watching the final chapter being written right before their eyes provides a feeling of victory regardless of the final scoring. For the fighters, a third and final fight is a defining career moment. It is their Judgment Day. This Saturday night at the MGM Grand, Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, having split the first two of their epic wars, are indeed about to write a final chapter of their own.
For Barrera, this fight may be do or die. The future hall of famer and Mexican legend is now 30. Many suspect he may be on the downside of his career, especially after he was destroyed last November by Manny Pacquiao. Since then, Barrera needed ten rounds to defeat Paulie Ayala in June. A loss to Morales provides proof that “The Baby Faced Assassin” is no longer the fighter he used to be. However, a win propels Barrera into pound-for-pound rankings and royalty status once more.
In the other corner there’s Morales. “El Terrible” has executed several title holders in multiple weight classes with a cold warrior-like mentality. His power is now spreading like the old Rome. His heart, will, and skill have guided him to genuine stardom. Chavez, Hernandez, and Ayala have all fallen to him since his last meeting with Barrera. The only man standing in his way now, is his old nemesis — Barrera. A win for Morales means total supremacy within his realm, but a loss means losing the empire.
There’s too much on the line for it to be a tactical boxing match. Morales will set a high pace early with combinations — blending skill and speed to win early rounds. Barrera meanwhile, will bide his time, picking spots, countering, and waiting for the right moment. Expect tension to mount in the later rounds when the fighting really begins. Barrera will strike, but Morales will surely answer. The outcome? It’s anybody’s guess!
There’s one more drama about to unfold … one more war to be won. While Barrera is fighting for his life, and Morales meanwhile fights for his kingdom, both will be fighting for their legacy. November 27 marks the Judgment Day for two outstanding Mexican legends. The loser will be remembered as a great fighter, but the winner will be remembered as the ultimate warrior. It’s all on the line. The final chapter is about to be written.
