I watched a Mike Garcia workout & sparring session at Indian Willie's Gym today--and came away VERY impressed. Physically and mentally, the young man appears to have it all. He is very personable, very articulate (two years of college and a graduate of the Police Academy); and in the ring, he is gifted: perfect fighter's physique, great balance, quick reflexes, excellent footwork, quick hands, solid punch,--plus the all-important work ethic. His chin probably hasn't been tested yet in his first 22 bouts as a pro--and I wasn't able to get a proper assessment of his defensive skill. But he's a "natural," like Bobby Chacon was at age 22--and appears to be far more stable mentally than Bobby ever was.
"Mikey" is trained full-time by his father, who also guided his older brother (Robert Garcia) to a world title a few years back, and was instrumental in the development of former champion Fernando Vargas.
It was a pleasure to watch the true professionals at work. I will go on record with the prediction that barring injury, Mike Garcia (who moved to Moreno Valley from Oxnard a few months back) will be a widely-recognized world champion within the next two years.
Note: "Mikey" Garcia is scheduled to fight Cornelius Lock in a 12 round IBF title elimination bout at the Laredo Energy Arena in Laredo, Texas on August 14, 2010.
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