Berto Meets Ortiz With The WBC Alpha-Belt On The Line

When I heard that Andre Berto (27-0, 21 KOs) was fighting Victor Ortiz (28-2-1, 22 KOs) for the WBC welterweight title belt, I was both disappointed and excited. Disappointed by the fact that Berto was not facing Pacquiao, Mayweather, Clottey or Judah — all better fights in my opinion. But I was also excited by the fact that he’d be facing the most naturally-gifted fighter of his career in Ortiz.

Although Ortiz’s talent is undeniable, many people question his fighting heart and spirit. His post-fight interview after his TKO loss to Marcos Maidana two years ago is the primary reason. In the interview, Ortiz appeared to imply that he wasn’t sure he was willing to endure the physical punishment that fights often bring.

I am not one to judge a boxer not wanting to get punched in the face. It’s blasphemy, in my opinion, for a blogger/writer/non-boxer to be so harsh since I can’t relate. But I am also aware that there are certain things that will lead to public vilification in the eyes of boxing fans. And Ortiz’s admission was such a thing.

However, I am confident that Ortiz has put that big fight blemish behind him, and that we’ll see him at his pugilistic best against Berto.

Berto is not beyond reproach either. Like Ortiz, he’s been dubbed a "can’t-miss" HBO prospect. But despite his sterling won-loss record, he’s still relatively unproven–in big fights at least. His best win to-date was probably his stoppage victory over the welterweight gatekeeper, Carlos Quintana. However, in order to be in the Pacquiao, Mayweather and even Mosley conversation, he’ll need to do much more.

And I am not exactly sure a win over Ortiz will do that, but it would be impressive nonetheless. In order for that scenario to take place, Berto will need to impose his speed and competitive spirit on Ortiz. If he finds that his speed is not the equal of Ortiz’s, which is a distinct possibility, he will be in for a long night.

However, when all is said and done, I expect Andre Berto to emerge victorious by way of late round stoppage, buoyed by his stamina, slightly better defense and overall advantage in physical strength.