By Geno McGahee
At one time, Yuriokis Gamboa, 30-2, 18 KO’s, was seen as one of the biggest names in boxing with huge potential, but he never lived up to the superstar status that many expected, me included. He lost his big fights and faded away, but he’s back, and he blitzed former champion, Roman Martinez, 30-4-3, 18 KO’s, dropping him twice in the second round and getting the knockout.
Gamboa pressured in the first round, winning it handily. In the second round, Gamboa threw a left hook and dropped Martinez. He got up angry, but the fight would not last much longer. A left hook-right hand combination would put him down for the full 10 count and Gamboa lives again…for now.
Going into the fight, Gamboa did say that he was in the best shape of his life and is mentally right and is ready for anyone, but is looking at Tank Davis as a potential next opponent. Whatever happens from this point on, Gamboa showed why so many thought he was going to rule the world of boxing. It’ll be interesting to see what he can do at his advanced age. Tonight, he looked great.
