I've only ever seen Rueles fight before when he got blown out by Oscar de la Hoya. Man he was impressive here. This was like a classic Antonio Margarito performance without the power- he kept coming forward and throwing shots (many to the body) from whatever position. He was 21 years old and after this was 36-1. Paez couldent go on in the 10th with a broken nose. He had his moments with dangerous flurries, but his punches where to wild and inconsistent. Great fight, very enjoyable Rafael threw lots of punches, landing a helluva lot. I definatly want to watch more of Rueles (and Paez too, though I've seen him before, he entertains me). Any suggestions of what fights to watch? Also just how good was Rueles?
Yup, that Paez fight was very entertaining. I agree Ruelas' win over Pendleton was also fun to watch and a great win. Showed Ruelas' heart, toughness, and condition. You should also check out his brother Gabriel Ruelas' bouts with James Leija, Azumah Nelson, and Arturo Gatti.
I've seen Gabe's fights with Nelson and Gatti, I'l check out the Leija fight. I recall the commentary team pointing out how gun shy Gabe was due to him having just being in a fight where his opponent died and it showed in this fight big time. I remember Joe Goosen getting in his face and shouting at him after the fight. The second one I think I'm talking about.
Gabe was such a better fighter than Rafael, at least aesthetically. The older brother looked like a scarecrow flopping around the ring in comparison. Gabe was a tough, solid, highly skilled boxer-puncher. Some fun punch-ups from Rafael, though.
