Why Juan Francisco Estrada and Roman Gonzalez Should Move On
At the Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona, the trilogy between multi-divisional world champions Juan Francisco “El Gallo” Estrada (44-3, 28 KOs) and Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez (51-4, 41 KOs) took place. Vying for the vacant WBC junior bantamweight title, Estrada did enough to get the verdict by majority decision.
ONE MORE TIME?
Their three fights have all been entertaining. After this most recent battle, “El Gallo” went on record during the post-fight interview saying that he’s interested in fighting Gonzalez again.
“We trained really hard for this third fight, and I think we left the result clear about who the winner was and who wants the fourth fight. I think we can do it, and the fans really enjoyed a great fight tonight.”
IS IT NECESSARY?
A contingent of fans would love for them to go to battle again. They have established themselves as the highest-profile names in the junior bantamweight division. They are good business for each other, in and out of the ring.
But here’s the harsh reality. Both men are getting up in age. Estrada is 32 and Gonzalez is 35. Neither are in their physical primes, and you can only give so much. Another fight between the two would more likely look like a battle between two badly faded champions. Besides the diminished entertainment value, other fighters in and around their division are chomping at the bit, wanting their chance to fight them.
WAITING FOR THEIR OPPORTUNITY
For those unaware, 115 is a fairly stacked division full of talented fighters. WBO junior bantamweight champion Kazuto Ioka has expressed a desire to face Estrada. Boxing in the lower-weight divisions is big business and it can be argued Estrada could make more money in a unification bout with Ioka in Japan than he would for a fourth fight with Gonzalez in the United States.
Ex-WBO 112 pound champ Junto Nakatani is an uber-talented southpaw with eyes on making a name for himself abroad. Having fought in the United States once before, word on the street is that the talented southpaw is interested in coming back to the States to fight either man.
Estrada and Gonzalez have thrilled fans and pundits with their skills, heart, and will to win. But, all good things eventually come to an end. It is time to bid adieu to what has been a great rivalry; it is time to move on.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
