Kelly Pavlik: America’s Pugilist

Boxing is art. Boxing is science. Boxing is not punching. Boxing is not a slugfest. The aforesaid is fighting. Boxing is strategic. Unfortunately, strategy is not beloved. Silently, fans respect the tacticians. Within their hearts, fans cheer those who stand and throw.

On Saturday, Kelly Pavlik defeated Jermaine Taylor. With his victory, Pavlik won the undisputed middleweight championship. Pavlik advanced to 32-0. Taylor declined to 27-1-1.

Pre-fight, both fighters taunted. According to Pavlik, Taylor lacked heart. According to Taylor, Pavlik was overrated. In the second round, Taylor validated his bluster. His stunning overhand right planted Pavlik. Following a standing eight count, Taylor pursed a knockout. Unfortunately, the round concluded.

After three crisp rounds, Pavlik reestablished himself. In the seventh, he cornered Taylor. He commenced a barrage. His rights and lefts suffocated Taylor. Eventually, Taylor crumpled. Pavlik’s actions were fortunate. On every scorecard, he was trailing.

Excellence molds champions. However, stories mold legends. Pavlik is a champion. He is violent. With that stated, he is relatable. He hails from an abyss. He is self-made. Pavlik’s grittiness does not equal celebrity. His grittiness translates. Pavlik is every man. Pavlik is who fans cheer.