As I stare into my crystal ball; Upcoming Fight Predictions Part I


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As I stare into my crystal ball; Upcoming Fight Predictions Part I

By Phil Santos, Overhandright.com (Jan 7, 2008) Doghouse Boxing

These two fighters could not be more dissimilar. Edison “Pantera” Miranda has become a fan favorite by pounding opponents into submission. Miranda boasts an impressive 25 KO’s in 31 fights and has suffered defeat only twice. It’s important to note that his two losses came most recently at the hands of current Middleweight boss Kelly Pavlik and previously to IBF title holder Arthur Abraham, two of the top fighters in the game. Miranda has since made the move up to Super Middleweight winning his first fight at 168 lbs impressively by stopping Henry Porras in 5 rounds back in October. Pantera is 4-2 (3) in his last 6

fights while taking on nothing but world class competition. His opponents combined record over that stretch is a gaudy 167-10 (136).

David Banks first made a splash in boxing circles by besting, the then unbeaten, hot prospect Elvin Ayala back in 06’. Banks proved he was for real by accepting a rematch with Ayala and winning again this time more decisively. His impressive wins earned him a shot at Contender alum Peter Manfredo Jr. to whom he lost a disputed decision. Banks appeared to outbox Manfredo but couldn’t close the deal. His quick hands and slick boxing skills were put on display in the most recent Contender series where he defeated the heavy handed Donny McCrary and lost a tight one to Paul Smith. Banks has a solid chin and very quick hands however his lack of punching power (2 KO’s in 19 fights) really limits his ability to keep stronger opponents at a safe distance.

This will be a nice test for Miranda given Banks ability to take a punch and his sound technical skills. Truthfully Banks will be nothing more than a stepping stone for Miranda, who has battled good boxers, such as Howard Eastman and Allan Green, and beaten a much high level of competition. I expect Banks to give Miranda problems early with his speed but fade by the 5th or 6th round once he tastes Miranda’s power. An easy win over Banks should lead Edison Miranda

to a better level of opponent at Super Middle, presumably Jean Pascal with whom Miranda shares the ESPN fight card.