Photo Credit: Esther Lin/Showtime
LAS VEGAS — Floyd Mayweather and Andre Berto were on target and looking ripped at yesterday’s weigh-in, respectively coming in at 146 and 145 pounds. An overwhelming favorite, the only question for some is if Mayweather will use his “last fight” to let loose and give fans a “toe to toe” fight.
MAYWEATHER: 146
BERTO: 145
PREDICTION: Over the last five years, there has been only two fights where Mayweather made good on his prediction to gives fans an “exciting” bout: his abbreviated stoppage win over Victor Ortiz, and the first bout against Marcos Maidana. Berto’s naturally a smaller guy and less skilled than Pacquiao, so I’d see how fans would think Mayweather would let loose on him. However, Floyd is who he is — a master of the Sweet Science who’s made it this far by living by the mantra of “hit and not get hit.” Add on to the fact it’s almost certain Mayweather isn’t retiring, I see another boxing clinic. Berto will swell up, but his toughness will see him through Floyd’s best shots. MAYWEATHER UD
MARTINEZ: 129
SALIDO: 130
PREDICTION: There is a good chance this turns out to be the best fight on the card. It’s impossible for Salido to be in a bad bout, but his chances of winning depends on if he can bring constant pressure for 12 rounds. Salido is only in his early 30s, but in boxing years he’s probably 50 considering the wear and tear since turning pro at 15. Salido will make it tough early on, but I see him slowing down enough over the second to allow Martinez to get by once again. MARTINEZ MD
BADOU JACK: 167
GROVES: 168
PREDICTION: Crossroads fight for both men. Groves finally gets the opportunity to put the Froch fights behind him and get his first world title. Jack is seeking his second consecutive win against a name opponent which would lead to a unification against James DeGale. Groves is a bit more explosive than Jack, and a faster pace benefits his athleticism. Jack should be competitive but I don’t see him being consistent enough to sway the judges. GROVES UD
GONZALEZ: 129
OQUENDO: 129
PREDICTION: This is an interesting fight. Gonzalez is the better fighter but his best days are behind him. Oquendo has been a solid fighter but never elite. On that alone, I have to favor Gonzalez to get the job done. GONZALEZ TKO8
Beats, Boxing and Mayhem 