After several failed dates with destiny, Kell Brook finally has his opportunity to compete for the world title that has eluded him for so long. Numerous injuries, saw scheduled bouts with Devon Alexander vanish before his very eyes, leaving Brook to contemplate the next step in his career.
This Saturday night, Brook faces off against the strong American Shawn Porter, whose steam rolling performances against Devon Alexander and Paulie Malignaggi means this fight is in no way a given for either man.
Hailing from the same gym as the former Featherweight kingpin, Prince Naseem Hamed, the 28-year-old Brook seemed ordained for success as he hoped to follow in the footsteps of his childhood hero. Throughout an unblemished pro career spanning almost a decade, Brook has disposed of some very decent opposition showcasing his great power, patience and ring savvy.
His greatest night came against former world champion and Ricky Hatton conqueror, Vyacheslav Senchenko, in what was predicted to be an ample test of Brook’s title credentials.
Despite this, “The Special One” was mesmeric on the night, breaking the tough Ukrainian down en route to a four-round demolition, leaving his focus firmly on a Welterweight world strap.
However, doubts still remain about Brook’s stamina, after suspicions arose when he appeared to run out of steam against Carson Jones back in 2012, leaving many spectators questioning his commitment to the sport.
Consequently, as Brook prepares to reach the pinnacle of his dreams, these demons still linger, as critics dispute whether Brook can cope with a fighter of Porter’s tenacity.
The man, perfectly named “Showtime,” has been modestly going about his business for quite some time now. The Ohio native burst on to the scene when he was given a chance to dethrone former Welterweight champion Devon Alexander last December, and dethrone him he did.
Alexander had no answer for Porter’s strength and power, leaving the former champion’s classy boxing ability completely neutralized. After the epic Alexander points win that catapulted Porter into the spotlight, the proud IBF champ took on the slick Paulie Malignaggi who promised to provide Porter with an awkward challenge.
Nevertheless, Porter had other ideas and pounced on the aging Malignaggi from the outset, smothering him with punches, concluding in a four-round blitz, that very few predicted.
Therefore with the American’s confidence continuing to grow, does Brook have what it takes to halt a tornado, like Porter?
Well, many pundits are torn between who they believe will be the winner, due to Porter’s immense work rate, along with Brook’s patient boxing ability. But one thing can be assured, Saturday nights headline attraction is sure to be an compelling one.
As judgement day looms for The Special One, the question still remains whether or not he can halt the terminator in Shawn Porter and finally achieve his life-long ambition by winning that sought after world title. Not long now until these question will be answered.
