Castillo-Diaz Breakdown.

Although I am disgusted that this isn’t a unification bout, I am glad it is still happening. This Saturday, we have Top Rank stable mates Jose Luis Castillo going head to head with the former (stripped) I.B.F. champion Julio “The Kidd Diaz”. This is the typical match up of boxer versus puncher. Julio Cesar Chavez protege Jose Luis Castillo falls into the category of a “banger.” Castillo fits the description

Click for larger image © Tom Casino/Showtime

of the quintessential Mexican fighter. He takes a few good shots, to give one good one. Julio Diaz on the other hand is more of a complete fighter. In this bout against Castillo, you could say Diaz would be the professor of the “sweet science.”

Jose Luis Castillo’s fight with Juan Lazcano proved what many believed, the only other lightweight better than him is Floyd Mayweather. Well guess what, Floyd is at 140-pounds now, leaving Castillo to prove his case against Diaz, then hopefully “Chico” Corrales. Castillo beat Lazcano to a pulp to capture the vacant W.B.C. belt.

As for Julio Diaz, he has come a long way since his first round knockout loss to Juan Valenzuela. He put on a terrific outing against Courtney Burton, eventually leading up to the championship bout with Javier Jauregui (Jauregui stopped Castillo twice on cuts.). The “Kidd” claimed the I.B.F. crown. But unfortunately, Julio Diaz became a victim of circumstances way beyond his control. He was eventually stripped of his title, and now we have this potential fight of the year showdown happening this Saturday.

In this fight, I feel Jose’s experience will help him win. I am expecting a tough-tough fight, with Julio getting the better of Castillo early on. But as the fight progresses, I feel Jose’s size will be too much for Julio to deal with. Also, I feel that Diaz can’t keep up boxing for twelve rounds, Diaz will eventually get tagged. I am expecting Castillo to win, by way of a late T.K.O. on cuts. When I say late, I mean anytime after the ninth round.

With Diego “Chico” Corrales lurking in the background, Jose knows he needs to handle his business. He feels the respect and recognition he deserves has eluded him, and he needs that big fight to catapult him to the next level. Well game seven is here my friends, and it’s a nothing-nothing game in the late innings. The pressure is definitely on; we will see who comes up big.

Until next time, be well and be safe. Thanks guys, enjoy the fight!