It sounds odd asking if an undefeated fighter can bounce back and recapture the hearts and minds of boxing fans. That’s the position the 27 year old, Danny Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) finds himself in this Saturday night.
The Premier Boxing Champions series returns to NBC as the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY, plays host to an intriguing matchup. Garcia will face the tough and capable 31 year old, Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs).
Garcia’s biggest problem over the last 24 months has been inactivity having fought just four times in the last two years. He did earn unanimous decision vcitories over Zab Judah and Lucas Matthysse, however, he was lackluster at best in squeaking out a majority decision against Mauricio Herrera.
The performance against Herrera raised eyebrows, and questions, as many felt that Garcia didn’t do enough to earn the victory.
For Garcia, the WBA and WBC 140-pound lynchpin, earning an impressive victory over a rugged veteran like Peterson is an opportunity to set the record straight. Additionally, a decisive victory will increase his stock value and help catapult him into the fray for future big money showdowns.
Both fighters have agreed to a 143-pound catch weight and no title is on the line Saturday night. Perhaps more important than titles will be Garcia’s ability to showcase his talents in what is sure to be an attentive television audience.
Read on for Danny Garcia’s keys to victory against Peterson.
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Photo by Jeff Fusco
First, Danny Garcia must start fast and get his punches off first. By establishing himself as the boss from the opening bell, he can dictate the action, pace and flow of the fight.
He should expect Lamont Peterson to be in great shape, as is his usual, and try to press him from the outset.
As Peterson tries to open the door and fight on the inside, Garcia can slam it shut with his quicker hands and lateral movement.
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Secondly, Danny Garcia must focus on counter punching.
Lamont Peterson’s style is to come right at his opponent. What he lacks in punching power he certainly makes up for with determination, energy and sheer toughness.
Garcia, a first class counter puncher, must earn Peterson’s respect and chip away at him as he comes in. The more effective he is at checking Peterson at the door, the better his chances are at keeping the action in his comfort zone.
Make Peterson think before he comes in. The more he is forced to think, the less he punches.
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And third, Danny Garcia must establish distance.
Lamont Peterson loves to fight on the inside with his head in your chest and go to work. He is a relentless fighter on the inside who will let his hands go to the head and body.
Garcia, who has a highly educated left jab, must work against a reach deficit against Peterson. But, that can’t deter him from using every second of every round and take Peterson out of his own comfort zone.
Once Garcia gets comfortable and establishes his timing, he is incredibly difficult to handle.
The outcome will certainly have ramifications in the 140 pound and 147 pound divisions. This is a very good style matchup between two world class fighters. If Garcia follows the keys to victory, he should maintain his undefeated record and cruise to victory.
