All photos by Amanda Westcott/Showtime
Erickson Lubin vs. Jorge Cota Will Be the Co-Main Event Tomorrow Night
He’s only 21 years old and still in the development phase of his career, but Erickson Lubin (17-0, 12 KOs) isn’t trying to hear that.
As opposed to spending this year gathering experience against crafty veterans, Lubin is looking to parlay a win Saturday into a title shot.
“I’m coming for that number one spot Saturday night,” said Lubin. “After that, I become the mandatory for Jermell Charlo. I’m going to win this fight in spectacular fashion, mark my words.”
Jorge Cota (25-1, 22 KOs) will be standing in Lubin’s way, but the 29-year-old Mexican shouldn’t pose much of a threat to “The Hammer” and his undefeated record. Cota’s last fight–a victory over Yudel Johnson–came nearly a year and a half ago.
While Cota’s sole defeat came against a credible opponent–Marco Antonio Rubio–his lengthy absence from the ring will seem like an eternity against Lubin.
Lubin has ascended the ranks quickly since turning pro in 2013, a decision he made over joining the USA Olympic boxing team. While Lubin has yet to be dragged into deep waters thus far, his game was neutralized at times in a UD win over Ivan Montero last July.
Lubin had a very quick turnaround leading up to the bout, which remains the toughest fight of his career. With the benefit of a full training camp, Lubin rounded out his 2016 campaign by making quick work of Juan Ubaldo Cabrera.
“I plan on making a bigger statement than Jarrett Hurd did,” Lubin recently told Boxing Scene. “Jermell said I need about six more fights to fight him, so I’m about to give him an early surprise. It’s not six fights. It’s one more fight, then I get Jermell Charlo.”
Just three years ago, Lubin was being showcased as an up-and-comer on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights. Now being given co-main event status on a CBS card, Lubin’s goal of a “spectacular” win is within reach.
Described as a “knockout artist” by PBC, Cota will likely look to lure Lubin into a brawl. A memorable stoppage win would help Lubin graduate from a “prospect to watch” to a bonafide contender.
