Welcome to my annual look into the future, a hopefully edifying preview of every weight class from strawweight to heavyweight. Yes, I take the time to investigate boxers below bantamweight, where no American surnames are to be found. Here at Maxboxing, we strive for inclusivity, embracing the neglected European, Asian, Pan-Pacific and under 118-pound regions. Over three installments, I will present an overview of every weight class, unveiling predictions for a champion who will retain his crown, a champion who loses his title and a prospect to keep an eye on. So you ask what my success rate over the last couple of years has been? Let?s just say it is above the best baseball player?s batting average but below Vitali Klitschko?s kayo ratio.
All 17 weight classes are packed with talent with only the heavyweight division lagging behind in terms of intrigue. It is a shame since the heavyweights drive the sport in America and their lack of excitement prevents casual fans from finding out about the great boxers below 200 pounds. Titlists from the IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO were considered when selecting champions who I believe will keep or lose their belts. As an aside, only the sanctioning bodies? real champions are considered, so do not expect to see ?interim,? ?silver? or ?regular? champions that the alphabet bandits elevate to make extra money considered. The only limitation I have for selecting the boxer to watch out for in 2012 is that the man chosen must not have had a world title opportunity yet.
