2 years ago I would have said that Lopez would simply out box Maidana, but he has improved his movement, actually has a defense, and still packs a punch. Lopez is a tough guy with some skill and a lot of heart. I cannot judge him by the Ortiz win because Victor is tough and big, but his head and heart are not always in the game. Lopez stood his ground and Ortiz basically folded and got caught doing the stupid thing of not keeping his mouth closed.
Maidana is a better boxer now, who you still have to basically kill to get him off you. I think that Maidana's pressure will be a bit too much for Lopez to handle.
It's always thrilling to see a Mexico ( Lopez is an American of Mexican lineage ) versus Argentina fight because no one has the clear edge over the other, historically unlike the Mexico versus Puerto Rico rivalry which has been in favor of the latter. This fight is bound to follow that script of past Mexican-Argentine ring confrontations
Lopez earned fame with his gallant stands in wins over Victor Ortiz and loss to Canelo Alvarez, two fighters who are bigger than him when he fought them, him being then just essentially a junior welter or a smallish welter at most.
In Maidana, Lopez will be meeting someone like him who will be in just his 4th fight above 140 lbs.But Maidana is already 2-1, 2 by KO at that level, losing by decision to American Devon Alexander in the two fighters welterweight debut in February last year but winning his next two fights by KOs over Mexicans Jesus Soto Karass and Angel Martinez.
I prefer to enjoy that fight than pick a winner.
But for sentimental reasons, I am picking Maidana to win either on close decision or late round TKO.
I like both fighters but I see Maidana winning by KO.
Unless Josesito can box like he did against Ortiz, I don't see a victory in his favor.
That whole card is sure to be great.
I hope Lopez knocks his *** out. Maidana is. Cheating punk.
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