Joe Smith cuts Alvarez’s lights off
Vying for an opportunity to fight for the WBO light heavyweight title, former champion Eleider (25-2, 13KOs) and former title challenger Joe Smith (26-3, 21KOs) would lock horns.
Heading into this match-up, you knew what both of these guys would bring. Alvarez, a counter-puncher with patience going against Smith, who applies pressure and power.
Smith, the aggressor from the onset, completely whitewashed Alvarez as he came forward repeatedly, throwing the kitchen sink. Unable to be effective countering his adversary, Alvarez would turn to fighting fire with fire. This would turn out to be a grave mistake. Landing thudding body and head shots, Smith looked as at any moment he could send the former champion down for the count.
An exciting sixth round saw both men stand and trade, hurting each other in the process!
THE END!
A great performance would be capped off with an emphatic knockout which was the product of a thunderous left hook. Once connected, Alvarez went reeling back to the canvas and almost through the bottom rope.
An impressive performance and win for Smith sets him up for a world title opportunity. As for Alvarez, he has to go back to the drawing board and pick up the pieces. 1-2 in his last three fights and at the age of 36, one must ponder is it time for Alvarez to consider his second career?
By: Jerrell Fletcher
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