I admit it. I?m pretty upset at the sport of boxing. The last couple of months have made it really hard to admit to still liking the sport.
The fights are back this weekend, and it kicks off in a major way. But I?m not feeling that excitement just yet. I feel owed for what fight fans had to go through the last two months.
It?s a good start, though, on Showtime. The network returns with a doubleheader featuring Juan Manuel Lopez and Rafael Marquez. This feels like it has Fight of the Year potential, but we shall see.
Is Marquez shop worn? He looked good against Israel Vazquez, but Vazquez has nothing left at this point after an incredible career.
Is Lopez ready for this moment? You sure hope so. At this point, this is exactly what he needs to show he is someone the sport can look at as a star for the future.
Then the Super Six returns with Tulsa?s Allan Green against Glen Johnson. Amazingly, the Road Warrior will work himself down to 168 pounds.
This has got to be Green?s moment. If it?s not now, will there ever be one? Johnson looked a little old in his last fight for the first time. Green has come up small in his big events against Edison Miranda and Andre Ward.
HBO also returns with Zab Judah and his fight to stay relevant. But honestly, if he beats Lucas Matthysse, Judah is right back in the mix.
I?m sure once Saturday night rolls around, I?ll be glued to the TV and watching the bouts. But it?s been frustrating, and this sport is not in a spot where it can take a month off and expect people to come back.
Here?s to hoping it truly is a November to Remember. Manny Pacquiao takes on Antonio Margarito next week.
