SaddoBoxing Writers Predict: Antonio Margarito vs. Kermit Cintron.

As detailed so extensively by our very own Sergio Martinez here at SaddoBoxing.com, this is a fight where passions run high, as evidenced in Margarito’s exclusive and unforgettable quote, “talking about the Devil is very different to being before him.” A

warning as macabre as the spectacle of Margarito’s last ring excursion, in which he tore into his opponent Sebastian Lujan, leaving a grotesque and bloody ear injury. It must be said that Cintron appears rather subdued, perhaps understanding that this fight represents a vast leap up in class from his past opposition level. Or perhaps it is that Cintron feels that he has carried the “interim” tag for too long, and that a fierce fire is building inside of him to finally claim the WBO welterweight championship of the world for his own. Media have been satisfied and preparations have been made, very soon it will be just two world-class fighters standing before one another about to do battle for a world championship. Who will emerge as the true champion when all is said and done we cannot know, but if you cannot wait to get a better idea, check in with the SaddoBoxing.com writers to find out whom they are picking on the big night.

Matt Cotterell: Two big, strong young welterweights in the prime of their lives facing off for a championship belt, we couldn’t ask for more. There really isn’t much to separate these two; similar height and reach, both are offensive machines and as tough as they come. I think Cintron will bring the tidier skills to the show and that’s what will ensure that his hand is raised after twelve evenly matched rounds.

Sergio Martinez: Now, when it comes to the main event, as Bart-Man used to say, “Hay Carramba!” Margarito comes forward, unleashing hell with both hands, and, guess what, so does Cintron! One of them is going to have to give some ground, right? I think Margarito is the much more complete professional fighter and, though “The Killer” is going to be very tough, Antonio is going to play that ribcage the way Charlie Daniels would play that fiddle (Remember the song “The Devil Went Down to Georgia?”). I think Cintron will earn a lot of respect by giving Tony hell for about six to eight rounds, even having him down once, maybe twice, only to be worn down by the Tijuana bad ass and stopped late. I would say in the ninth or tenth round. This one has fight of the year written all over it.

Shaun Rico LaWhorn: Kermit Cintron (24-0, 22 KOs) steps up his level of opposition with this fight, Antonio Margarito (31-4, 22 KOs) will be a decent challenge for Cintron. This fight will start off slow; both fighters feeling one another out a bit, only to have Cintron’s power take control. Cintron has to understand, this fight is a defining moment in him being taking seriously in the welterweight division. I have Cintron winning by seventh round K.O.

Don Caputo: I’ve got a feeling that this is going to be Cintron’s coming out party, Margarito won’t be a walkover by any means, but I am expecting youth and power to prevail.

Edwin Gonzalez: Margarito knocks Cintron out in eight rounds. Margarito’s chin and experience will help him prevail.

Jim Cawkwell: I think that Cintron has the power, the youth and the energy to outlast the more experienced campaigner and we will see an explosive stoppage of Margarito arund the tenth round.

Jim Cawkwell can be reached at jimcawkwell@yahoo.co.uk