Chavez wins 154lb Title.

Los Angeles, CA- The Legend continues! Julio Chavez, Jr. won the first title of his young career, beating Germany’s Sebastian Zbik, in front of a lively crowd at the Staples Center. Many in the boxing world have criticized Chavez heavily, including people from his homeland. When Chavez fought two amateur fights, in Mexico, they where both shown on television and once he turned pro, Chavez was fed a heavy dose of handpicked opponents, being featured on major pay per views. Many fighters, in his community, took this as a slap in the face, believing that his opportunities were the result of his last name and his father’s legacy instead of his personal ability.

After struggling to make weight in one bout and being caught using diuretics to make weight in another, many where questioning his commitment to the sport. Enter Freddie Roach: Chavez knew he needed a change and felt the only trainer to do that was the best trainer, in the business. The relationship was a success Chavez won his next two bouts in impressive fashion.

In this title fight, from the opening bell, Chavez came out and attacked the champion with hard body shots.  Zbik, not having Chavez’ power, decided to throw combination shots. The fight was a back and forth affair with Chavez throwing less but landing with harder shots, while Zbik laid off the power and continued to keep the punch volume high. Chavez outweighed Zbik by twenty pounds and was not concerned with the champion’s power, walking through most of Zbiks shots, even the clean hits.

In the last three rounds, Chavez upped the tempo and started landing hard punches in combination, hurting Zbik. To the delight of the densely populated Chavez supporters at the Staple Center, he was relentless, attacking the body and, then, the head. In the end, the judge’s scorecards read 114-114,117-111.116-112. Chavez’ late surge secured him the victory. Chavez gave respect to Zbik and thanked the crowd and his father for the support. It was a great win for young Chavez.  Now, a big money match up can be made down the road for the newly crowned champion.

- The Boxing King -