Jorge Linares vs. Kevin Mitchell
Brandon Glass, Contributing Writer
Have you seen that clip of Jorge Linares countering a sparring partner with a perfect straight right? If you haven’t, it’s worth a look.
Champion in three diffrent weightclasses, Linares’ first defense of his lightweight strap is against a mandatory, Kevin Mitchell, who has been on the quite the streak.
This could be a firefight as both fighters are heavy handed and usually stop their opponents. Linares has the edge as he’s the more technical of the two, but the gutsy Mitchell will trade at times. He’s been stopped doing that, but it’s unclear if that has to do with questions about Mitchell’s beard more so than willing to take risks.
Mitchell has technical prowess. He can be slick at times with his footwork and head movement, but I think he keeps his hands too low to be successful against Linares. Both fighters have a string of knockouts coming in, Mitchell with six and Linares with two.
Linares is rightfully the favorite and has been consistently successful against world class opponents like Oscar Larios Rocky Juarez and Gamaliel Diaz. He would have beaten Antonio Demarco had the gash on his nose held together. Mitchell on the other hand loss the biggest fights of his career getting stopped by both Ricky Burns and Michael Katsidis. Safe money says Linares has the reach, more skilled and too fast. He will exploit Mitchell’s deficiencies and defend his title.
Prediction: Linares
Michael Burnell, Staff Writer
This one is a toss up, but I think Jorge Linares will take a close decision. Both are capable punchers (last five wins inside the distance for Kevin Mitchell, and five of the last six for Linares) and have a couple stoppage losses each so a TKO is possible.
This wont be an easy fight, but Linares will have the extra boost that comes with being a newly crowned champion and will hang on to his crown, barely. Mitchell is a tough hombre.
Prediction: Linares
Tony Calcara, Staff Writer
This should be exciting. Both fighters can give and both have been stopped.
Each is capable of boxing and both pack a pretty good punch. This recipe doesn’t call for the judges being needed. I like Jorge Linares to win by stoppage over Kevin Mitchell.
Prediction: Linares
Ismael Gallardo, Photographer
Prediction: Linares
Alex Burgos, Editor-in-Chief
This could be the fight of the night. It’s always fun to watch guys that are willing to let it all hang out–knock out or get knocked out.
If the going gets tough for Jorge Linares–in enemy territory–I can see him wilting and Kevin Mitchell stopping him.
But, if Jorge Linares uses his jab and quick combinations, I think he’s got the skills to stop Mitchell. Should be fun to watch either way.
Prediction: Linares
