By Rudy Mondragon
Historically, September has been a highly sought out month for boxing. Specifically, the weekend of or leading into September 16th as it marks the day that many Latina/o American countries celebrate their independence from colonial forces. Boxing promoters exploit this date, sell a high number of Coronas and margaritas and it makes for a huge pay day.
Come September 14, 2013 boxing fans will have a real treat as their main event feature will be Floyd “Money” Mayweather (44-0, 26 KOs) versus Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (42-0-1, 30 KOs). As fight fans, we love it. What we love more is when an undercard fight will also carry some serious weight. This is the case with the recently announced undercard fight between Danny Garcia (26-0, 16 KOs) and Lucas Matthysse (34-2, 32 KOs).
With the power that both fighters have, its hard to say that this fight will not end in dramatic fashion (via KO or TKO). With Matthysse clearing out his last few opponents via KOs, many felt that Garcia was avoiding the powerful Argentinian fighter. However, according to Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions, it was Danny Garcia who in fact requested the fight.
Many are underestimating the power of Danny Garcia in comparison to the power that Matthysse brings. It is valid to say that about Danny given how he struggled in the late rounds against Zab Judah in his last outing. Zab made Garcia look like a rookie in the later rounds as Zab’s experience and ring wisdom helped him make that a more competitive fight. What Matthysse brings is high pressure, a good chin and power. If Danny was a better boxer with speed, i would give him the advantage in this fight. However, Danny has shown to be flat footed at times, throwing really round punches, leaving him wide open for straight shots. Advantage in my opinion will go to Matthysse in this one.
Although the Mayweather and Canelo fight seems to be the big draw for September 14th, it is the Garcia and Matthysse fight that really makes this card complete. Mayweather will most likely box all night and collect points. His best offense will be his defense and countering Canelo. Unless Canelo can catch Mayweather, I can see this fight being limited in action, but a great demonstration of boxing IQ and skill. For boxing purists, this will be a good one to watch. For those who like brawls and nonstop action, Garcia and Matthysse will deliver for you.
blood money boxing 
“throwing really round punches, leaving him wide open for straight shots”
Amen. And I would add that it’s not that he has to be a faster fighter than he has been, but I think he also has to be a little smarter. Danny is actually quite good at pivoting to get a better position, but as you said above, he leaves a lot to be considered in punch compactness; thus, he will get clocked if he’s not looking.
What I think might be the the key for “Swift” is if we see a new level of ring IQ, because I believe he has that to his advantage against “The Machine”. If Danny cannot take Lucas’ punches, or if he cannot implement a smart game plan against him, he will certainly lose the bout.
Another good one Rudy!