IS CHAVEZ JR. READY FOR A SHOT AT A WORLD TITLE?
By Moncayo Blackbull

August 21, 2007 - There are a few sons of famed fighters out there testing their fists at the game of boxing. From the top of my head I can name Ronald Hearns, son of the “Hit Man” Tommy, Hector Camacho Jr. Jorge Paez Jr., Pepino Cuevas Jr., and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

Sons of famed fighter have big shoes to fill, not an easy task for the fighting offspring. There names alone will always align them with hallmark fighters, so naturally the public will expect the bloodline to produce world class talent.

The one fighter that stands out of the pack is Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Thanks to the major investment of his promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank. Arum has not been shy when it comes to pulling money out of his pocket in order to promote this young kid. Top Rank has effectively bought Chavez Jr. the experience he needs to compete at a higher level of combat. Bringing in inferior opponents while at the same time granting the much needed experience a young fighter needs is what Top Rank has successful done with Chavez Jr.

A similar strategy was accomplished by Top Rank with champion Miguel Cotto, who now has become a major player among champions.

Chavez Jr. certainly displays a ring record fit to be fighting for a world title but has his experience level elevated equally? With ongoing talks about a possible match up against IBF Champion Paulie Malignnagi, Top Rank must believe the kid is ready to challenge for a world championship or at least challenge a name fighter.

Can it be Top Rank is moving Chavez Jr. too fast? Well, no a fighter with 30 fights should be ready for world class competition, the question is did Top Rank move Chavez Jr. too soft!

The fight with Malignaggi will be a telling point in Chavez Junior’s career but unfortunately, I can’t see this fight being fought for Malignaggi’s title. Chavez Jr. has not fought at 140 lbs. for almost 2 years and 10 fights past. Chavez Jr. last fought at a weight of 152 lbs.

Look for Top Rank to pull advantages toward Chavez Jr. by making Malignaggi move up in weight, possibly making the match at 147 lbs.

I’m hopeful this contest can be made, the speed and mobility of Malignaggi will certainly put the will, and determination of Chavez Jr. to the test. I like the match up and can see an exciting bout taking place.

I give Chavez Jr. a good shot at winning this contest should it become fruitful, however my early pick would go to Malignaggi by decision.

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