Latin temperament…in frozen Russia
May 16, 2008
Next week the WBO Latino cruiserweight title will be on the line…in St Petersburg. Russia-based Azerbaijani Ali Ismailov 12-1-1(8.) will be challenging for the title.
Admittedly, he will be fighting someone who does actually classify as Latin American – Brazilian Pedro Otas 17-0(15)
Indeed, the match-up, on paper, looks a decent one. But why must this title be on the line? Surely Ismailov is not salivating at the prospect of becoming the pride of Latin America?
Exactly how often to EBU champions defend their European title against Americans, Australians, South Africans?
If the WBO is to argue this title has any other meaning than to push the belt holder up the rankings, then at least have two Latino boxers contesting a Latino title.
