Battle of the showmen. Both guys known for their antics, showboating, colorful personalities, unorthodox style, and excitement in the ring. Could Paez handle the power of Hamed, rough him up and possibly trouble him? Or does Hamed’s superior power and reflexes become a factor where he eventually finds a way to stop Paez?
What a crazy match up with two very distinct styles. Paez was underrated and had some very fast hands and a pretty good chin. I think Naz though hit too hard for Pass and was also faster then Paez.
I like Paez more than Hamed but he gets flattened here. The way to beat Hamed is by boxing cautiously and counter punching. Even a great fighter like Barrera didn't take liberties vs Hamed he fought a very disciplined tactical fight. Paez coming straight at Hamed in an overly aggressive manner is not the way to fight against one of the hardest hitting Featherweights of all time. Hamed by KO in the middle rounds in a very entertaining fight.
I hated Haseem but he should win a decision. Paez was very durable at all weights he fought at and probably underrated at 126 lbs. Haseem is too fast and mobile. That said Paez is probably better than anyone Haseem beat at 126 lbs.
