By: Joston “El Rey” Theney
Huddled in masses around the squared circle and in front of their television sets, casual observers of the sport and pugilistic enthusiasts alike are almost-ritualistically treated to a cacophony of boxing adages when summing up, and commenting on, a hype-worthy fight. Subjective phrases used to nutshell intriguing fights range from “speed kills” to “power is the great equalizer,” and my favorite “styles make fights.” But to nutshell this Saturday’s clash between boxing superstar Amir “King” Khan (28-2, 18KOs) and WBC Light Welterweight Champion Danny “Swift” Garcia (23-0, 14KOs), the more appropriate boxing adage to use is probably “if mouths could kill.”
With a 64% KO record, the light welterweight division’s new face and former world champion Amir Khan is no feather-fisted pugilist. He has pop, blinding hand-speed and fast feet that keep him elusive. His greatest wars however are fought long before lacing up his gloves, in front of microphones and the media. Khan’s upcoming fight has seen him viciously attack his undefeated opponent with such stinging comments as “my last five opponents could beat him” and “who has he fought – old guys?” Khan even went on to question the pedigree of his WBC Light Welterweight Champion opponent by stating, “I don’t think he’s in the same mix as me and other elite level fighters.” The former light welterweight champion believes that he is too smart, too big and too strong for Danny Garcia.
The undefeated, rising superstar Danny “Swift” Garcia however believes Amir “King” Khan lacks the power to hurt him, and claims Khan’s lightning-fast hand-speed doesn’t concern him because of Khan’s poor timing. Garcia himself is a talented boxer-puncher who, while not exceptionally gifted in any one category, is durable, tested, and a well-rounded boxer in every aspect of offense and defense. And much like Team Khan, Team Garcia has launched it’s own verbal assaults via the media directed at their July 14th opponent, mocking Khan’s fighting style, his fragile chin and lack of heart. But most importantly, they’ve mocked the former champion’s heritage and nationality, however poorly thought-out and incorrect the information was. And as another old adage goes, “them’s fightin’ words!”
Their sharp words, stinging verbal shots and great counter quips have gotten both fighters a captive audience for their upcoming fight this July 14th. But in this game, it’s not a good idea to “write checks that your butt can’t cash.” So, live from the Mandalay Events Center in Las Vegas, two of the light welterweight division’s finest will do battle in front of thousands in attendance and millions watching around the world. This Saturday night at 11pm ET/tape-delayed for PT on HBO, it will be time for both men “to put up or shut up.”
