“Renaissance†would be the wrong term to describe what’s happening in the super middleweight division right now. That implies a “rebirth,†but never before has the division seen this depth of talent, and more importantly, a group of talent who actually show interest in fighting one another.
Remember the Roy Jones Jr./Frankie Liles/Steve Little days?
When Joe Calzaghe left the division in late 2007, he left a gaping void at the top. In retrospect, this was something of a blessing—the absence of a champion created a carrot for the line of highly-capable contenders in tow.
What’s beginning to transpire is a novelty at 168. From the amorphous jumble of challengers, some clarity has been gained, namely because they’re starting to get in the ring together.
Showtime is looking to settle the fascinating ambiguities that remain in the super middleweight ranks—more on that later. Let’s take a look at where the division stands at present and where it might be headed. First, a look at the top fighters:
1. Mikkel Kessler (41-1, 31 KO) – “The Viking Warrior†has been out of action for about nine months now and has only taken on two fairly pedestrian foes since losing to Calzaghe in November, 2007. Nonetheless, he still has a belt, is the most accomplished, and his set of skills is the most complete of anyone campaigning at 168.
2. Lucian Bute (24-0, 19 KO) – Title-holder Bute was lucky to get out of the 12th round against Librado Andrade in October, but was in control through most of the fight. Lucky for the rest of us, Andrade and Bute will go at it again sometime this fall. (more…)
