Vergil Ortiz Jr Batters Michael McKinson Into A Ninth Round TKO
In his first match since suffering a serious medical malady, top-ranked welterweight contender Vergil Ortiz Jr (19-0, 19 KO’s) took on southpaw Michael “The Problem” McKinson (22-1, 2 KO’s). The two were slated to fight each other previously but that was before Ortiz Jr was forced to withdraw due to an episode with rhabdomyolysis.
Now that he’s recovered, the WBO #1 contender is ready to resume his pursuit of a full world title. With his flawless record, 100% stoppage ratio and top three rankings which include #1 (WBA), #2 (WBC) and #3 (IBF), the talented Texan is in prime position to challenge for a belt. Which is great considering this match stood as a WBA and WBO title eliminator.
For his part, UK fighter McKinson entered the match confident that his in-ring IQ and physical ability would be more than enough to deal with Ortiz Jr. He understands that many in the boxing public will question his punching power and effectiveness, yet McKinson is not letting this worry or distract him. Despite this only being his second match in the US, McKinson was adamant that this would be his biggest win on his biggest stage.
RELATED: Michael McKinson: “My Lack Of Knockouts Shouldn’t Affect Me Being World Class!”
DEATH BY GUT SHOTS!
McKinson opened the match going straight at Ortiz. He initially had a bit of success and landed a few impactful right hands. Ortiz Jr. would later stabilize the action with his trusty jab. Unfortunately an accidental clash of heads left the Texan with a cut left eye. This ultimately would be the most damage McKinson would do for the rest of the fight.
After a subdued second, Ortiz Jr began the third by knocking out McKinson’s mouthpiece then pummeling him to the head and body for the duration of the round. This started a running theme.
The Texan would continue playing bruiser until the sixth when The Problem was able to slow the fight down with his footwork. Ortiz Jr. still landed the better shots but his work rate and overall effectiveness was notably sheared down. Just as McKinson was falling more and more into a groove, the Texan sank him to his hands and knees with a piercing left hook body shot.
Sadly for him, The Problem was back on his hands and knees, failed by another body, within the first ten seconds of the ninth. Seeing their man was obviously hurt, McKinson’s corner threw in the towel awarding Ortiz Jr the win by technical knockout.
With the win, Vergil Ortiz Jr. is now one step closer to a world title shot even though he doggedly refused to call out anyone in particular.
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By: Bakari Simpson
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