ESPN2 FNF: Erislandy Lara vs. Carlos Molina RBR

Lara really disappointed. Molina is actually a decent boxer, but Lara definitely stunk up the joint. I am not sure that Shields is the right fit for him either. Lara's high guard defense is top notch. His offense is really robotic though. Lara often throws left crosses in situations where hooks would be better. He goes for that left uppercut far too much, and when he steps his competition level up, he will probably get countered if he continues to throw it that recklessly. You have to set it up. His jab could be much more crisp. He doesn't throw combinations, although he seems to have good enough hand speed and athleticism to do it.

I thought Molina outworked Lara in most rounds. The fight was kind of hard to score though. Lara's defense nullified much of Molina's offense, although Molina was busier, but in return Lara didn't land much either. A draw was the right call, due to the total lack of effective offense by either guy. If Molina would have gotten the nod, I wouldn't of had an issue. I would of had an issue if Lara had of gotten the decision. He wasn't busy enough to get the nod after 10 rounds of landing little to nothing.

 

He did land the better power punches, because Molina landed none. But you have to question his apathetic lethargy.

I also think Shields is not right for him.

 

The thing about Molina is that before his layoff he was on a impressive upward curve - I had never seen him fight before but I thought he would be one to perhaps watch out for. Why people go on like a like of pure power is fatal to a good fighter is beyond me....

 

Lara was mentally disengaged last night , that's why he looked so passive, he has to learn to leave his personal problems outside the ring and do his job. Still it shows Lara's potential that he managed to at least get a draw , his athleticism carried him over , it has nothing to do with his trainer , Ronnie Shields is a sound trainner , if your mind is not on the fight.... well nobody can help you , you have to help yourself . He will learn from this and comeback stronger ( mentally ) for his next bout , on the other hand this fight maybe will help him get all those people hiding from him ? ( Martirosyan, Bundrage ,etc ) ... nah just kidding . Peace .