by Jeremy "Fasttalker" Bjornberg - 010/21/2005
Many names come to mind when compiling a list of the best newcomers in boxing. I decided to mostly focus on some of the more exposed and well-known prospects. I will continue to focus on up and coming fighters so be sure to check back.
Miguel Cotto (25-0, 21 KOs) - At 24 years old he has proven himself against tough contenders and young undefeated fighters like himself. His chin has been brought under a lot of criticism, but he reminds me of a young Trinidad. He doesn't punch as hard as Tito, but he is a better boxer and brings the same kind of pressure. Cotto is ready for a title shot in the 140-pound division and if his chin holds up he will become a pound for pound fighter as well. Grade: A-
Jason Litzau (15-0, 14 KOs) - He faced his first decent challenge and got dropped, but rebounded with a vengeance. 22-year-old Litzau stormed back after hitting the deck and showed a lot of heart in winning a decision over John Nolasco. He is known as a puncher but has the kind of boxing skills to win a championship too. Jason needs at least 3-4 more fights before he can be truly graded, but he has a lot of athleticism and a great competitive streak. Jason is at the top tier of prospects in the 126-pound class. Grade: B
Bernard Dunne (17-0, 10 KOs) - He had been campaigning mostly at 126 but got down to 122 for his last fight. Dunne is a murderous puncher who gained a lot of experience by fighting in the U.S. the last few years. Dunne is only 24 years old but has fought all over the U.S. and actually just had his first fight in Ireland this year. He is a proud Irishman like Wayne McCullough, and he offers a lot more offensive potential. Dunne is at about the same stage as Litzau, but he has a little more experience abroad. Dunne against Litzau could make a super fight someday. Grade: B-
Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (23-0, 18 KOs) - Chavez is only 19 years old. He now weighs about 140 but will be a welterweight before too long. When I first saw him he looked like a frail little boy but he has started to show the kind of talent that could take him out of his father's shadow. Chavez has yet to fight anyone decent but he has started to grow into his build and has the look of Alexis Arguello. Chavez has a smooth, natural flow to his punches and he will have the best possible promotion behind him. If I could pick any prospect's future, it would be his. He will be guaranteed to make millions in his first competitive fight. Chavez is super raw but he is taking a slight step up by taking on his fathers' conqueror Grover Wiley on Nov. 12. Grade: C
Sergio Mora (17-, 3 KOs) - The brash winner of NBC series The Contender is only 24 years old. Mora has a lot of the same qualities Fernando Vargas had. Mora is very competitive and is unwilling to give an inch. He has unbelievable pride and belief in himself. Mora also is a very good boxer as well as sharp on the inside despite his height. The problem with Mora is that he switches from orthodox to southpaw so much it ruins his rhythm and catches him to get caught off guard. Mora wasted most of the night playing games against Manfredo in the rematch and it almost cost him the fight. Mora should focus on orthodox and staying outside the pocket. Grade: C+
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