Two true boxing warriors from different countries showed up at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas Friday afternoon to weigh in for their Jr. Lightweight title fight. Australia’s Robbie “The Bomber” Peden came in at a ripped and ready 130lbs. The 5’7” Peden has been fighting at super feather since his pro debut in 1996 and apparently manages that weight well, looking healthy on the scales. Mexico champion Marco Antonio Barrera also looked well, tipping the scales at an even 130lbs, before quickly hitting up the replenishing Gatorade bottle to refuel. This will be Marco’s third fight at 130 lbs and he’s slowly risen on the scales over the years after starting his star-studded professional career at the tender age of 15, although tender is no way to describe this true pound for pound champion.
The timing of this fight has significance to Mexican fight fans as they're celebrating Mexico’s Independence this weekend, giving legendary Barrera even further incentive to put on a show for his countless fans.Which is just bad news for the rugged, but less talented Peden. Peden isn’t known for bringing many surprises to the table, regarded as a straight-on come forward brawler and not possessing near the technical boxing and counterpunching skills of Barrera. But Peden does have a couple things going for him which should make this fight interesting for a while.The size advantage being one big factor, but also the many rounds shared together as sparring partners. Barrera employed the “The Bomber” to prep him for some past world title fights, with one of Barrera's world title fights being postponed due to a rib injury from sparring with Peden. So Peden may know more of Barrera’s tendencies than the usual opponent, but the same can be said for the Mexican. And of course, the big fight under the bright lights is quite different from sparring sessions, and something Barrera has been successful with many times against the world’s best. Look for Peden’s steel will and sturdy chin to make this fun for the fans for a while, but all of Marco’s championship attributes will take their toll and have Peden hard-pressed to continue past the 10th round.
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