Erickson Lubin Whiffs a Showdown with Xander Zayas
It looks like super welterweights Erickson “The Hammer” Lubin (26-2, 18 KO’s) and Xander Zayas (18-0, 12 KO’s) want to punch on one another next. At least, this is what the two have led the public to believe. In a recent series of posts, the pair of TV-friendly fighters have shown their interest in maximizing a potential prizefight.
SET TRIPPIN’
Lubin is now on a two-fight win streak since suffering his second professional loss to Sebastian Fundora back on April 9, 2022. Yet, with wins over Luis Arias and Jesus Alejandro Ramos Jr., The Hammer has earned himself the favorable rankings of #2 (WBO), #3 (IBF), #4 (WBA) and #5 (WBC). Without question, Lubin would stand as Zayas’ most notable and dangerous opponents to date.
For Zayas, ranked #3 (WBO), #11 (WBC) and #13 (IBF) to face the heavy-handed Floridian however, there would have to be a cross promotional deal with The Hammer’s PBC handlers and Zayas’ Top Rank backers. This would make the notion somewhat a dubious proposition from the start.
RISKY BUSINESS
If the duel was officially contracted, on paper, it makes for one entertaining scrap. Both Lubin and Zayas are known for their come-forward, crowd-pleasing styles. One needs look no further than The Hammer’s all-out war with Fundora to get a sense of his dedication to battle. Provided that he could claim it, Lubin’s would make for a fantastic scalp for Zayas.
There is also the very distinct possibility that The Hammer could humble Zayas and set his career back a measure much like his loss to Jermell Charlo did back on October 14, 2017. Will Top Rank be willing to risk that chance with their one-time darling prospect? Stay tuned to 3Kings Boxing to find out.
