BOXING COMMENT: There can be few sadder moments for a boxing fan than to see an aging former great climb through the ropes as a mere shadow of his former self.
That occasion presents itself this Saturday when Mexican legend Erik Morales, whose all-action style and huge heart has thrilled fans throughout a glorious career, laces up his gloves for a final shot at the big time.
And having already claimed world crowns in three divisions (super bantamweight, featherweight and super-featherweight) Morales wants to become the first Mexican to win world titles at four different weights, although even with an upset win he won’t accomplish this feat as only the ‘interim’ WBA strap is up for grabs.
Standing in the opposite corner will be the hard hitting Argentine Marcos Maidana who took Britain’s WBA light-welterweight Amir Khan to a close points decision last December in an enthralling match that won the backing of many for fight of the year.
Alarmingly for Morales and his army of backers Maidana appears to be approaching or already in his prime while in stark contrast Erik longs for a return to his peak.
Being 34 years of age and having suffered five defeats from six fights between 2004 and 2007 should have been ample evidence to convince ‘El Terrible’ that his best days lay firmly behind him.
But following more than two and half years in the safe confines of retirement the triple weight world champion returned with three consecutive victories during 2010, including a stoppage over Scotland’s Willie Limond.
Morales, who turned professional at just 16 back in 1993, notched up 41 straight wins including 10 world title fights at super-bantamweight before losing his unblemished record to arch-rival and fellow Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera.
Less than six months later Morales recaptured the WBC featherweight title by defeating Paulie Ayala before making two successful defences.
He moved up to super-featherweight and claimed the WBC crown in 2004 with a point’s verdict over Jesus Chavez.
In his next fight he added the IBF prize before losing once again to Barrera later that year.
Five months later Morales outpointed the current pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao and to this day remains the last man to defeat the legendary Filipino.
That March night some six years ago represents his last great performance, with Morales dramatically deteriorating since.
He was then outpointed by little known Zahir Raheem before suffering back to back stoppage defeats at the dynamic hands of Pacquiao.
In 2007 Morales challenged David Diaz for the WBC lightweight title and despite many observers claiming he deserved the judges verdict he dropped a unanimous points decision.
Having campaigned for the majority of his peak years between 8st 10lbs and 9st 4lbs there can be little reason other than age or money to take on a fully fledged light-welterweight in Maidana.
The Argentinian boasts a devastating 27 knockouts in 29 wins with just two close point’s defeats at the highest level.
With a record of 51 wins including 35 knockouts against six defeats Morales will no doubt win the sentiment vote of the MGM Grand Las Vegas crowd.
But despite their cheers being coupled with Morales’ courage it still won’t be enough to give the fairytale ending.
While one hopes Morales pulls off the miracle, the Mexican not getting seriously hurt may prove a greater victory in itself.
How many times have we seen great champions being the first to know but the last to admit they are not quite what they use to be?
I just wish they could call time before the referee has to do it for them.
