OnThEGRiND BoXiNG

Monday May 4th, 2009
by Jesse Rican

Firstly, I would like to congratulate Paulie Malignaggi on a great victory, and Chris Fernandez as well for fighting his heart out. Their 8 round contest took place just over a week ago on the undercard of the untelevised portion of the Carl Froch vs. Jermain Taylor Super Middleweight Championship fight. Paulie proved himself once again to be the “Magic Man” in winning 7 out of 8 rounds, outboxing his opponent, and beating him to the punch. It was also apparent that Paulie was flat out too fast for Chris.

With all that being said, I would like to focus on the action that took place in the 6th round. As I sat next to Peter Manfredo Sr. surrounded by what was a predominantly east coast crowd who looked at this match as an easy win for Paulie, we all rose to our feet in amazement as Chris nearly KOd Paulie. The 6th was the most compelling round of the fight, and one of the more compelling rounds of the entire loaded fight card. In this round Paulie was seconds away from hitting the floor, and by the looks of it almost having his fight waved off by the referee. Here at Www.OnThEGRiNDBoXiNG.coM we want to give Chris his due credit for nearly turning his moniker into a prophecy.

At the age of 33, with a 16-7 record, many may wonder if this might be the end of the line for Chris. After starting out in his professional career as a promising prospect, and earning wins like his victory over John Lewis (who had a 5-0 record, you can catch the match on youtube), Chris showed himself to be a fighter with a fair amount of potential. What’s next for Chris the veteran though? After you lose three of your last four matches, is it time, to look back and just appreciate the chance of fighting a Paulie Malignaggi?

This reporter happens to think so (personal note to Suge: shut up if you don’t think I’m a reporter… lol). Or is one fight all Chris needs? Just look at Billy Lyell.

I would also like to ask what’s next for Malignaggi? After gaining his confidence back in defeating the game Chris Fernandez…and reaffirming that his speed is truly something to be seen, what is Paulie’s next step? Surely, Malignaggi won’t be content to accept the role of gate keeper. Does he fight another under card, or does he go after the gold again as soon as possible and prove the boxing world wrong?

On a personal note, being in attendance for this bout was truly a sight to behold, and one of the highlights of the night’s action. After witnessing Paulie fight live I believe he has what it take to be a HUGE draw. He possesses not only boxing skills, but a healthy dose of pure charisma. It’s true that he comes off a little cocky, but it comes packaged with enough humility (like seen post Hatton) that he’s still a viable contender for the hearts and minds of the boxing public.