Scott Harrison-Victor Polo: Change the Record Please.

Having just witnessed one of the poorest displays of Scott Harrison’s career, I feel dejected, almost let down by what I have just seen. It was a draw on my card, but it could and should have been a much more satisfying result. The fifth round was Harrison’s best of the fight and, rather ironically, almost led to his downfall. Polo, had the round gone a minute longer, would most likely have been stopped, as Harrison rained heavy shots down on the Colombian’s granite chin. Fortunately for Polo, the bell rang and he was the recipient of what should have been a brief reprieve. As they came out for the sixth, it was evident that Harrison had put rather more energy into his earlier fusillade than should have been the case. By now, he looked sluggish, arm weary and altogether off the pace. As the rounds came and went, Harrison was doing enough to nick the odd round, but looking decidedly unimpressive in doing so. Also evident was Harrison’s stamina, or lack thereof, so often the key to his success. From my point of view, the problem appeared to be that Harrison’s rigid style does not allow for him to adapt to certain situations. In this case, he couldn’t take a break for a round and get his second wind. Harrison continued to move forward, throwing punches that lacked any real intent, taking more energy-sapping shots in the process. In my eyes, the draw was the correct result. It was close, too close, but I feel Harrison did enough to retain his title, if only just.

What I found most disturbing was the post-fight chorus of “I told you so” from the majority of forum goers. If there is one thing that annoys me more than most, it is the fickle nature of boxing fans. Even experienced, proven fighters like Barrera suffer the indignity of having their detractors use their defeat as fuel for their fire. It is an ignorant, ill-informed point of view that rankles with the likes of me. I am not suggesting that my point of view carries any more weight than any other fan; I just don’t see the sense in such knee-jerk reactions. Why not take a step back and assess the fight, attempt to answer some of the questions the fight poses? Harrison’s performance against Polo is unlikely to tell you any more than his first fight against Medina. Both performances were sub-par; both were against tall, rangy boxers. Harrison answered every question that was asked of him in the rematch with Medina. And I can say in complete confidence that he would do the same in a rematch with Polo.

Another point that was raised in the aftermath of this fight: If Harrison has such difficulty with an opponent of Polo’s caliber, how could he be expected to live with the likes of Barrera, Morales and Pacquiao? First of all, Polo is world class. He proved that tonight, regardless of how Harrison looked. Secondly, Barrera, Morales and Pacquiao are as different to Polo as chalk is to cheese. Harrison thrives on brawling. Fighting any of the aforementioned would suit Harrison’s palate. How can someone not consider the style of opponent before commenting on a fighter and his chances? As far as boxing goes, it’s elementary. Talent and ability can go out of the window when certain styles are matched. It’s the nature of the beast, unfortunately.

With Barrera looking for opponent this upcoming April, Harrison might soon get the chance to stick two fingers up at the nay-sayers. Whether that equates to a win, or just a fantastic showing, let’s hope he, along with Hatton, can give British boxing that much needed shot in the arm.

James MacDonald can be reached at ac009b5460@blueyonder.co.uk