Most boxing fans and experts may agree that Guillermo Rigondeaux is one of the best fighters in the World. Owner of an amazing technique, great footwork, interesting speed and respectable punching power, the Cuban has made his way to the top in the super bantamweight division, defeating a high class opponent like Nonito Donaire. However, his skills are as good as non-commercial and “The Jackal” has found troubles trying to be a part of big events. Why does that happen?
The truth may not be that difficult to find. Rigondeaux’s style respects boxing’s commandment “try to hit and don’t get hit” and that, sadly, doesn’t sell tickets. It’s just a matter of paying attention to those fan’s favourite fighters and the way they perform in the ring. For example, Marcos Maidana and Lucas Matthysse have always been acclaimed by the public because of their aggressive characteristics and for turning their bouts into wars. In that context, it is not important if they win or lose. The only thing that matters is watching two men beating each other up and the Cuban doesn’t think the same way.
Rigo’s defensive style has been effective so far to win in all his fights and receive just a little punishment. His undefeated record of 16-0 proves that. However, if the 35 years old Cuban wants to be considered more often for big cards, he may need to do something about the aggressiveness of his performances. Bob Arum once said: “Nobody doubts about Rigondeaux’s talent, but it’s going to be hard to find him opponents. His style doesn’t sell tickets”. Actually, the southpaw took his last fight, against Drian Francisco, with only two weeks notice just to keep the engine working after a year of inactivity.
“The Jackal’s” stigma really seems to be the Cuban stigma. Erislandy Lara, for example, has also been criticized for the way he performs in the ring and answered: “Our school is one of the best in the World. They say it is boring just because we don’t like getting hit, because we protect too much. But, who likes being punched?”.
Lara said a few months ago that he will never change his style. However, he has never gone through the inactivity that Rigondeaux has and felt the frustration of not being called for an important event. Considering that, what should the former Olympic Gold Medalist in Sydney do?
– Luciano Jurnet / @TuchoJurnet13
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