Al Haymon wins whatever the result. I have this sneaking suspicion that Martin's ceiling is a lot higher than we've seen so far but I don't have much evidence for that. Obviously on past performances and ability you have to favour Ruiz Jr, but it will be interesting to see how his new trainer works out and what kind of shape he's in. Quite looking forward to it whenever it occurs.
He reminds me a bit of Tony Thompson in that he looks bang average but still seems to cause fighters problems. I think he could potentially cause Ruiz issues with his jab and general awkwarness. I wouldn't be surprised to see a closer than expected tussle with Ruiz looking bad for long stretches.
I wonder what a good trainer and a real push from him effort and lifestyle wise might achieve. He looks to have the physical gifts. Although maybe he's just bang average but awkward and I'm reading to much into things. All things being equal Ruiz should resolve all questions. Unless he's self isolated himself in a burrito stand.
I like Martin in general. But Ruiz beats Martin 10 out of 10 fights. Martin actually likes to fight, doesn't have an issue with exchanging with his opponent, takes a shot, has good stamina, etc. And being a southpaw usually cause problems for most heavyweights, as everything happens backwards. The problem with Martin is his right hand is only a range finder, always has been. He is a one handed fighter. He hasn't developed his right hand at all. He prods and pokes with his right jab, never stings anyone with it. And his right hook is pretty much nonexistent. Anytime Martin would even think about jabbing Ruiz will slam with a right hand lead. Same thing AJ did.
I do agree that Martin is a little bit of an enigma he hasn't really face that many top fighters. I think his title-winning fight with the knee injury robbed us of a chance to see what he really had and the Joshua fight is what most people seem to remember. I think the worst thing he did was the layoff because it's clear that he is having to re-establish himself Because of these unknowns its hard to know where his ceiling is. Sure he lost to kownacki but he was just coming back and he won the second half after getting his bearings. The Joshua fight doesn't look as bad looking back considering Joshua stopped klitscho and povetkin, I guess people think he lacks heart. I think we will see
Damn, Martin was beginning to put together a pretty respectable career since the loss to AJ. Anchors aweigh again.
They're buddies or at least on good terms with each other. Sparred each other too. Also, Martin's trainer is recently estranged ex-Fat Andy trainer Manny Robles.
Decent fight to determine who is the best American born HW after Hunter. Ruiz would be clear favourite though.
Gulp..... please don't put Charles in he ring with that ferocious blob, not at this present time, he might literally be food!
